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Dr. Tara Richards Joins Statewide Effort to Prevent Domestic Abuse Deaths

UNO’s criminal justice expert takes on a key role with Nebraska’s Domestic Abuse Death Review Team to improve victim safety and shape statewide policy.

  • published: 2025/04/14
  • contact: Amber Evenson
Dr. Tara Richards

Dr. Richards, the David Scott Diamond Alumni Professor of Public Affairs and Community Service in the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice, was recently appointed to the Nebraska Domestic Abuse Death Review Team (DADRT)—a statewide group created after the 2022 Domestic Abuse Death Review Act was passed in Nebraska. The Team reviews domestic abuse-related deaths and recommends changes to strengthen systems and prevent future tragedies.

Domestic violence remains a leading cause of injury and death in the U.S., especially for women. DADRT’s work provides critical insights into where systems fail and how they can be fixed—something Dr. Richards is uniquely qualified to address through her data-driven approach to criminal justice reform and victim advocacy. “Domestic Abuse Death Review Teams provide crucial opportunities to better understand gaps in the criminal justice and victim service systems and identify interventions that are not working as intended,” explains Dr. Richards.

The DADRT brings together experts across sectors, including health care, law enforcement, child advocacy, mental health, and legal fields. “I am humbled to be appointed to Nebraska’s Team working to use a data-driven approach to save lives and improve our responses to victim-survivors and their families,” states Dr. Richards. The Team’s members appointed by the Nebraska Attorney General serve a four-year term.

Dr. Richards’ appointment comes at a time when UNO’s School of Criminology and Criminal Justice continues to earn national recognition. The master’s program is ranked No. 6 in the nation, and the doctoral program holds the No. 13 spot—affirming the school’s leadership in the field. Her role further strengthens a program already known for excellence and impact. Dr. Richards’ appointment reflects UNO’s mission of transforming lives through pragmatic research and meaningful community engagement. It also aligns with the university’s commitment to addressing real-world challenges through partnerships and inclusive solutions.

DADRT’s findings and recommendations will inform legislative, judicial, and social service efforts statewide. Dr. Richards will contribute to this important work throughout her four-year term—and continue elevating UNO’s role in leading impactful, interdisciplinary solutions.