Latino Intimate Partner Homicide

• In Event: Prevalence and Trends of Intimate Partner Violence

Abstract

Extremely little is know about intimate partner homicide (IPH) among Latinos, despite the group constituting 16% of the US. This study documents important trends and characteristics of Latino IPH and compare them to White and Black IPH using the best available data on violent deaths that includes Latino ethnicity, the National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS). In 2011, the percentage of IPHs in relation to all homicides was 6% for African-Americans, 10% for Latinos and 18% for Whites. Almost 90% of all Latino IPH victims were female, compared to 82% for White IPH and 62% for Black IPH. Around 45% of Latino IPHs included firearms, with rates for White IPH at 62% and 47% for Black IPH. Latinos appear less likely to experience IPH than Whites. However, Latino IPH is unique with regard to its gender breakdown. Interventions can be tailored for this specific ethnic group.

Authors

• Chiara Sabina, Pennsylvania State University

• Marc L. Swatt, Justice & Security Strategies, Inc.