(Des Moines, IA) -- Twenty-people died last year in Iowa as a result of domestic violence, the most in 10-years.
“The loss of 20 lives to domestic violence is tragic. Adding seven additional deaths to the report in just the final four months of 2021 spotlights the devastating effects that domestic violence has for victims and families across Iowa,” said Sandi Tibbetts Murphy, Crime Victims Division's Director. Tibbetts Murphy says the rising number of domestic violence deaths coincides with significant decreases in federal funding for victim services.
In all, 14 women, four men, and two bystanders were killed as a result of domestic violence in 2021, according to the most recent Domestic Violence Fatality Chronicle. So far in 2022, three women have been killed in domestic violence-related cases.
Since 1995, 365 women, men and bystanders, including minors, have been killed as a result of domestic violence in Iowa.
The Iowa Attorney General's Office is reminding Iowans of several domestic violence resources available including:
Iowa Domestic Violence Helpline - 800-770-1650
Is free and confidential
Answers calls 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
Can connect to nearest Iowa programs, which:
Offer crisis counseling and safety planning
Refer to shelter and housing assistance
Provide legal advocacy
Provide access to community resources
National Domestic Violence Hotline - 800-799-SAFE or 799-7233; TTY 800-787-3224; Text Line - Text “START” to 88788
Free and confidential, available 24/7
Can connect to local resources and programs
Love is Respect Teen Dating Violence Hotline - 866-331-9474; Text Line - Text “LOVEIS” to 22522
Free and confidential