Domestic violence is a problem that touches every community in America. Violence against women is particularly concerning, but learning more about this topic may help us understand what we can do to stop it. For those seeking to make a direct impact in combating domestic violence, Southeastern Oklahoma State University offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice program that equips graduates with the knowledge and skills to address this critical issue.
In the most recent report by the Violence Policy Center, “When Men Murder Women,” Oklahoma continues to rank among the top 10 states in the nation for single-victim, single-offender incidents in which men murdered women. The 2024 report, based on 2022 homicide data, provides national-level statistics showing that 2,410 women were killed by men in single-victim, single-offender incidents that year. Over the past 25 years, 92% were killed by someone they knew, and 61% of female victims were wives or intimate partners of the offender.
The Oklahoma Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board’s 2024 report, analyzing 2023 data, reveals an alarming increase in domestic violence homicides in the state. The total number of domestic violence-related deaths reached 122 victims in 2023, the highest number since the board began collecting data in 2002. Of the 50 intimate partner homicides (IPH) recorded that year, women comprised 82% of the victims. The report notes that Oklahoma averaged 115 domestic violence homicide victims annually between 2019 and 2023, up from an average of 90 between 2014 and 2018.
The Scope of the Problem
Domestic violence hotlines receive approximately 20,000 calls each day, according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV). Behind each call is a story, and a person whose life or safety may be at risk due to the actions of a family member or an intimate partner.
Addressing violence and its root causes can be complicated, and as allies, we need to know what we’re up against. Additional 2023 figures from the Oklahoma Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board tell us more about victims and perpetrators, and the impact this topic is having on the state’s citizens.
In 2023, intimate partner homicides accounted for a significant portion of domestic violence deaths in Oklahoma. The data shows that 82% of intimate partner homicide victims were women, with all adult female victims killed by men.
Of the domestic violence homicides in 2023, firearms were the most common weapon used. The presence of a firearm continues to be a significant factor in turning domestic violence situations deadly. The 2024 report emphasizes that domestic violence affects Oklahomans across all demographic groups, with women between the ages of 21 and 40 being particularly vulnerable to intimate partner violence.
National figures from the Violence Policy Center report highlight the need for action as well. The 2024 report found that 89% of women murdered by men in single-victim, single-offender incidents were killed by someone they knew, and 63% of female victims were wives or intimate partners of the offender. The report also found that firearms were used in 62% of these homicides. Sadly, one of the report’s most significant findings remains consistent: most single-victim, single-offender incidents in which men murdered women happen during or shortly after a domestic dispute.
What Can We Do to Make a Difference?
To address such a serious topic, we must take a multipronged approach. From domestic violence programs and legislation to volunteering and education, there are many options to make a positive impact on the safety of women in Oklahoma.
The Oklahoma Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board emphasizes the importance of increased spending on trauma-informed services, fully engaging law enforcement and strengthening legislation on domestic violence to protect victims and hold abusers accountable to prosecution. As the report notes, many intimate partner homicide cases are preceded by other incidents of domestic violence, so it’s crucial that law enforcement, legal professionals and those in other services recognize the signs of abuse.
Oklahoma’s Lethality Assessment Program (LAP) continues to bring together members of law enforcement, domestic violence service providers and researchers from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. The goals of the taskforce are to collect data to evaluate LAP outcomes, enhance uniformity of practices, and provide training and technical assistance to law enforcement and domestic violence service provider agencies.
It’s crucial that federal and state governments enact laws to protect women and domestic violence victims in general. The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), originally enacted in 1994 and reauthorized multiple times, has provided billions in federal grants to support programs that prevent domestic violence and sexual assault, according to the National Association of Counties. This is just one example of how state and federal lawmakers can act to combat domestic violence.
The 2024 Oklahoma Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board report recommended that the Oklahoma Legislature increase funds allocated to Oklahoma Attorney General certified domestic violence and sexual assault programs. Adequate funding for these services provides a lifeline to survivors and can help prevent future tragedies.
What Can You Do to Make a Difference?
Volunteering with a domestic violence shelter or nonprofit organization in your area takes no special education or experience. Agencies and support hotlines that provide services to victims will train you and show you a variety of ways you can help. Sometimes, just being there can make a world of difference for someone who needs a friendly ear.
You can also make donations of food, clothing and household items to your local women’s shelter. Organizations like Palomar, Oklahoma City’s Family Justice Center, are great places to start. Even if you don’t live near OKC, they’ll help you find contact information for services in your community. You can also call the Oklahoma SAFELINE at 1-800-522-7233 for information about services available in your area.
Many graduates of criminal justice degree programs go on to work in law enforcement — one of the first lines of defense against domestic violence. Others work in victim advocacy or continue to law school, advocating for victim’s rights. Some graduates also go on to careers in politics and work to improve current laws and policies.
All of these career options, and many others, are promising choices for those who want to do their part to end domestic violence. With dedication and education, we can work together to support Oklahoma women so they can live their lives in safety, free from violence and abuse.
Learn more about Southeastern Oklahoma State University’s online Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice program.