While the case reviews themselves remain confidential, they are part of the work outlined in the Illinois Domestic Violence Fatality Review Act.  

Lake County State’s Attorney First Assistant and co-chair of the DVFR, Lauren Callinan, stated, “Reviewing our first case with the assistance of so many professionals from different disciplines highlighted the need to address domestic violence as a public health issue. I am encouraged by the level of participation on our DVFR Team, and I look forward to additional case reviews where we can continue to develop concrete and effective recommendations for reducing domestic violence and domestic violence fatalities.” First Assistant Callinan also expressed gratitude to Lincolnshire Police Chief Joe Leonas and his police department for providing the team a space to conduct their review. 

The DVFR team has been meeting since June 2024, and they intend to conduct a minimum of two annual case reviews of fatalities or near fatalities. The goals for the team include examining barriers to safety, justice and equity; identifying gaps in the response of systems; considering alternate and more effective systemic responses; and developing policy recommendations.

State’s Attorney Eric Rinehart stated, “Whatever it takes, we must use evidence-based practices and a multi-disciplinary approach to reduce the occurrence, frequency, severity and lethality of domestic violence. I want to thank First Assistant Callinan and her group for their pioneering work.” 

After two years of case analysis, the DVFR Team will create a report that lists its recommendations to reduce domestic violence and domestic violence fatalities.   

The DVFR Team’s co-chairs are Lake County State’s Attorney First Assistant Lauren Callinan and Executive Director of A Safe Place, Pat Davenport. Chenel Vanden Berk, a Forensic Nursing Specialist at the International Association of Forensic Nurses serves as the secretary for the team. The team also includes prosecutors, law enforcement, defense attorneys, judges, probations officers, the Coroner’s Office, social service providers, offender treatment providers, a Guardian Ad Litem, DCFS personnel, nurses, substance abuse and behavioral counselors, and legal aid attorneys. 

“I am deeply grateful for the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office and every member of the DVFR for their dedication to prevention and commitment to improving our systems,” Executive Director Pat Davenport said. She continued, “Each team member is making a huge impact in saving lives and helping ensure the safety and well-being of victims and their families.” 

The Illinois Domestic Violence Fatality Review Act was signed into law in 2021. Under this legislation, a Statewide Committee is responsible for overseeing the formation of regional domestic violence review teams across Illinois and providing technical assistance and support.  

The Lake County State’s Attorney’s office has worked closely with A Safe Place since 1978 when the non-profit organization was founded to serve survivors of domestic violence. In 2022, A Safe Place and the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office were also awarded a joint grant to reduce Human Trafficking in Lake County. In 2024, State's Attorney Rinehart was selected to serve on A Safe Place's Honorary Board of Directors.  

Since December 2020, the Lake County State's Attorney's Office has increased the number of domestic violence prosecutors, total number of victim-support professionals, and Spanish-speaking victim specialists to improve the quality of service for all communities.