What is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence (DV) is generally associated with assault or reckless endangerment, stalking, violating an existing protective order, sexual offenses, kidnapping, terroristic threatening, arson, burglary, robbery, extortion or coercion and custodial interference.  But the follow offenses may also be considered crimes of DV.

Harassment

Harassment can be found if one person repeatedly contacts another at inconvenient times. This often happens when one person calls another or sends multiple texts generally at night but sometimes during the day. Also taking away another person’s cell phone or not allowing them access to a phone can also be a basis for domestic violence accusation. Likewise, “blocking” can occur in situations where one person does not allow the other person to move about freely such as blocking the door or a hallway or even standing behind a car. Following one person from room to room while continuing to argue is another example.

Criminal mischief

Criminal mischief occurs when one party intentionally breaks property belonging to one or both parties. This usually occurs when items are thrown either down or at the other person. Punching holes in walls is another example of criminal mischief. In effect, any act that involves an object the gets broken during an argument can be a basis for a finding of criminal mischief.

Lesser known but highly effective forms of domestic violence are coercion and extortion.[define these terms]

Coercion

Extortion

Repeated text messaging generally leads to a very bad ending. Especially when threats are involved such as if you don’t do X then I will call the police or if you do X then I will make your life miserable. It is imperative that men do not engage in multiple text messages. There is absolutely no good that can come of it. Remember that anything in writing lives forever and you can be certain that a judge will read everything the you have written.

A very simple rule of thumb is to remember that if it feels good you probably shouldn’t say it either in writing or in person. Obviously having any kind of weapon reasonably available can be grounds to have your weapons taken away from you.

If your relationship has degraded to the point where your conversations are no longer civil then you need to start protecting yourself. You can protect yourself by limiting your communications and physical contact with the other party. You can also protect yourself by recording, either by audio or video, any interactions between you and the other party. In fact it is very recommended that you do so otherwise it’s your word against hers.

For a more thorough explanation of the types of conduct that can be considered crimes a domestic violence see Alaska statute 18. 66 (link to authority site – gov not competition)