Domestic Violence

Domestic violence involves a pattern of behavior used to gain or maintain power and control over another person through violence, threats, intimidation, or coercion. These acts are committed by one cohabitant against another and may involve current or former spouses, family members, individuals who live or have lived together, or people who share a child.

Domestic violence can include physical assault, threats, harassment, stalking, sexual offenses, property damage, use or threat of weapons, protective order violations, and other criminal acts. Cases may be charged as misdemeanors or felonies depending on the severity of the offense, injuries, weapon involvement, criminal history, and the presence of drugs or alcohol.