Jeanne: I was just frightened. I love my husband and don't want him to go to jail. I didn't want to call for help, but I couldn't let the children see their father hit me anymore.
Police officer: Calling us was the right thing to do. Tell me what happened. I can see that your children have been crying and are very upset. If you hadn't called us, the situation could have become worse.
Jeanne: We had an argument about dinner not being ready. Also, the house was messy. After I called for help, my husband left. I feel better now that he is gone. But I'm worried he'll be even angrier when he returns. I just want the fighting to stop.
Police officer: If he assaulted you, your husband has broken the law. The prosecutor will be reviewing the information about this case and will decide if charges are to be filed. Your husband does not have the right to hit you.
Jeanne: But, officer, he will be so angry if he goes to jail. I'm worried about what will happen when he comes home.
Police officer: Everyone has the right to be safe in their own home. If you believe you will be in danger when your husband comes home, the court can issue an order to tell your husband to stay away from you. If you do not think an order would make you safe, there are shelters and safe homes that you can go to. There are also advocates and counselors who can help you understand domestic violence and provide you with information that will help you protect yourself and your children. I will leave some information for you that explains some of your rights and gives you some resources to call. You need to get help for yourself and the children.
Jeanne: Thank you for the information. I will read it over. I think the children and I will stay with my parents until I have a chance to think everything over.
Police officer: I have written out a statement from what you have told me about this incident. Please read the statement over carefully, make any necessary corrections and sign the statement. It is an important part of my report of this incident. Later, a domestic violence advocate or someone else from the prosecutor's office may call you for further information. Please write down the phone number where they can reach you. Before I leave I will write down the incident number which you can refer to if you ever need to call us about this report.