Oklahoma set a record for the number of domestic violence homicides in 2023, with the highest count in 20 years. Despite the troubling history with domestic violence, there is optimism for the future. YWCA OKC endorses the Violence Policy Center, which ranks Oklahoma second in the nation for women murdered by men. Experts blame lack of resources, stigma, and weak laws for the struggles. YWCA VP Brandon Pasley reviews homicide cases to identify patterns and advocate for change.
The Oklahoma Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board has recommended additional funding to support children exposed to family violence-related incidents. Federal funding cuts have led organizations like YWCA to rely on state funding. Proposed legislation aims to strengthen victim protection laws and beef up evidence-based prosecution. Bills such as HB 1591, SB 541, and SB 813 target enhanced penalties for domestic violence offenders.
Pasley notes a growing interest from policymakers in addressing domestic violence proactively, leading to more action and hopefully fewer lives lost. Attorney General Gentner Drummond stresses the need to hold abusers accountable and protect survivors. Support resources such as the Oklahoma Domestic Violence Hotline and Sexual Assault Hotline are available for those in need. With increased attention from Oklahoma leadership, efforts to combat domestic violence are gaining momentum.
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