The Louisiana Domestic Abuse Fatality Review (LA-DAFR)

About LA-DAFR:

The Louisiana Domestic Abuse Fatality Review (LA-DAFR) Panel was established in 2021 via Louisiana R.S. 40:2024.1-2024.6. LA-DAFR is coordinated through the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH), Office of Public Health (OPH), Bureau of Family Health (BFH).

Through a comprehensive and multidisciplinary review of domestic abuse fatality cases at the state and local levels, LA-DAFR works to identify and characterize the scope and nature of domestic abuse fatalities in order to take action to prevent future fatalities.

As defined by Louisiana R.S. 40:2024.4, the functions of the review panel are to:

• Identify and characterize the scope and nature of domestic abuse fatalities in this state.
• Research and review trends, data, or patterns that are observed of domestic abuse fatalities.
• Review past events and circumstances of domestic abuse fatalities by reviewing records and other pertinent documents.
• Research and revise, as necessary, operating rules and procedures for review of domestic abuse fatalities.
• Recommend systemic improvements to promote improved and integrated public and private systems serving victims of domestic abuse.
• Recommend components for prevention and education programs.
• Recommend training to improve the identification and investigation of domestic abuse fatalities that occur in Louisiana.

How LA-DAFR Works:

DAFR cases that are identified through the Louisiana Violent Death Reporting System (LA-VDRS) and through the Pregnancy Associated Mortality Review (PAMR) are matched with domestic abuse fatalities recorded by the Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence (LCADV). Case summaries are reviewed by legislatively-mandated members of the DAFR Panel and Authorized Agents to the Panel.

Once reviewed, findings are aggregated and analyzed to inform action. Panel members determine which recommendations from the DAFR need to be addressed at the state, system, community, and/or family levels. They then prioritize needs, brainstorm solutions, and work together with outside partners to implement those solutions.

Recommendations from DAFR case reviews are provided to the governor, legislature, state agencies, and community organizations that promote the health and safety of Louisiana’s families and invest in the prevention of domestic abuse.

Preventing Domestic Violence:

Domestic abuse and domestic abuse fatalities are  preventable. Together, as healthcare providers, criminal and civil justice systems, domestic violence service providers, community members, and policymakers  can create solutions and keep Louisiana families safe at home. For information, recommendations, and more ways to aid and support victims of domestic violence, see the latest DAFR Report and supplemental materials and resources listed below.

For More Information:

• National Domestic Violence Fatality Review
• National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS), NVDRS infographic 
  
• Louisiana Pregnancy-Associated Mortality Review (PAMR)
  
• Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence (LCADV)
  
• Center for Disease Control and Prevention's Domestic Abuse Resources and screening tools
• The Danger Assessment, a tool developed by Dr. Jacquelyn C. Campbell designed to help determine the level of danger an abused woman has of being killed by her intimate partner.

Everyone deserves support and safety. Find help with the following resources:

• Louisiana Statewide Domestic Violence Hotline: 1.888.411.1333 - Free. Confidential. 24 Hours
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 1.800.799.SAFE (7233), Click Here to Chat Live, or Text “START” to 88788
• Plan for Safety: Create a safety plan and find resources through the National Domestic Violence Hotline.

Questions? Contact:

Dawn N. Joseph
Domestic Abuse Fatality Review Coordinator
dawn.joseph@la.gov