The Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board (DVFRB) was established on July 1, 2025. The DVFRB collaborates and conducts a multidisciplinary analysis of the victims’ experiences, perpetrator behaviors, and general circumstances surrounding domestic abuse deaths and near deaths. Through the review process, the DVFRB identifies contributing factors related to the decedents, perpetrators, and systems responsible for supporting, assisting, and protecting victims from domestic abuse.
The collaborative efforts of the review process provide an opportunity to improve the State’s response to address the needs of domestic violence victims. Domestic abuse cases are reviewed only after the criminal case has been finalized or a perpetrator’s death occurs. Only deaths that occurred on or after July 1, 2022 may be reviewed by the DVFRB.
Case Referral
Cases eligible for review include domestic violence homicide, near homicide, and related suicide. To refer a case for consideration please use this link: Case Referral.
Annual Reports
Our first annual report will be published in late 2026.
Resources
Are You or Someone You Know in Danger?
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available—you’re not alone. Some situations carry a higher risk of serious harm or homicide. These lethality factors may include:
- Recent or attempted strangulation
- Escalating threats or use of weapons
- Stalking or obsessive jealousy
- Controlling behavior and isolation
- Recent separation or attempts to leave the relationship
- Prior threats to kill the victim, children, or self
- History of forced sex or extreme violence
Recognizing these signs can save lives. If any of these warning signs are present, it’s critical to seek help immediately. Contact a local shelter, advocate, or emergency services.
- Mississippi Coalition Against Domestic Violence: www.mcadv.org
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- Love is Respect: Text 1-866-331-9474
- Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
- National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline: 1-866-331-9474
Contact
For general inquiries please contact the Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board at dvfrb@dps.ms.gov.
