Perpetrator Involvement in Domestic Homicide Reviews in England and Wales

In England and Wales, Domestic Homicide Reviews (DHRs) examine domestic abuse (DA)-related deaths. Despite perpetrators being a potentially important albeit difficult source of information, no study has investigated perpetrator involvement in DHRs or that of others like their family. Data is reported from a documentary analysis of 60 DHR reports and a reflective thematic analysis of 29 stakeholder interviews. This paper explores if, why, when, and how perpetrators-directly or by proxy-are involved in DHRs and the potential benefits but also perceived or actual risks and challenges. Practice and policy implications, and areas for future research, are identified.