NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Governor Bill Lee signed into law Tuesday a bill establishing a public registry for domestic violence offenders, a measure named in honor of Robertson County Sheriff’s Deputy Savanna Puckett, who was tragically murdered in 2022.
Known as “Savanna’s Law,” the legislation requires that individuals convicted of domestic violence offenses for a second time be listed on a public registry. The registry will display the offender’s name, photo, and details of the conviction, including the date and county where the offense occurred. Entries will remain on the registry for a period ranging from two to 20 years, depending on the circumstances.
Savanna Puckett was shot nine times and her home was intentionally set on fire in 2022. She was reportedly stalked and lived in fear before her death. Her mother, Kim Dodson, has been a vocal advocate for stronger protections against domestic violence, testifying before lawmakers in 2024 to urge passage of the bill.
“Not only did we lose Savanna, he also suffocated her dog,” Dodson told lawmakers, emphasizing the brutality of the attack.
The Robertson County Sheriff’s Office commemorated the signing on Facebook, honoring Puckett’s commitment to protecting the community.
“Savanna dedicated her life to protecting members of our community,” the post read. “Though she was taken from her family and Sheriff’s Office family too soon, her legacy lives on in protecting domestic violence victims for the state of Tennessee.”
“Savanna’s Law” is expected to enhance public safety by increasing transparency around repeat domestic violence offenders and providing valuable information to communities across the state.
