Topeka ? Gov. Kathleen Sebelius announced Monday the creation of a domestic violence fatality review board, naming a former attorney general to lead it.

Sebelius tapped former Atty. Gen. Bob Stephan to head the 14-member board, which will review all adult deaths related to domestic violence, determining trends and making recommendations for improved training and prevention programs.

Stephan, who served as attorney general from 1979 to 1995, has been a staunch advocate for victims’ rights, including pushing for stronger domestic violence laws.

“As the son of a beloved mother who was a victim of domestic violence, I assume the position as chair of the board with firsthand knowledge of the problem and a commitment to do everything possible to find ways to stop this despicable crime,” Stephan said.

Kansas already has a law requiring investigations of child deaths, including those occurring through domestic violence. Sebelius created the domestic violence review board through an executive order, issued as part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

The other 13 members of the board were chosen because of their jobs working in the field of domestic violence, law enforcement and family services.