Domestic violence is a silent epidemic, often leaving its victims fearful, voiceless and uncooperative. Twenty years ago, typical domestic calls were brushed off as trivial disputes to be settled behind closed doors. Police would either convince the couple to stop fighting or try to mediate their dispute.

By the late 1980's, however, states began to treat domestic violence as a crime rather than a private affair. Today, at least 19 states and the District of Columbia have passed mandatory laws that require officers to arrest the suspect when they have probable cause to believe that abuse has taken place. Oregon is one of the states with this law.

Anyone who has any type of intimate contact with another individual, regardless of the length of time or depth of commitment, can be arrested for domestic crimes. Victims can be from a low income household or a very wealthy household. Domestic violence does not discriminate and sometimes this violence can turn deadly. Threats of suicide or homicide, signs of depression, obsessive about partner or family, pet abuse, and rage may be signs of the abusers potential to harm the victim.

Some of the signs of an abused person are: depressed and hopeless, no friends or isolated from others, low self-esteem, history of family violence, unsure of her/his needs, and marks or bruises. They usually are willing to accept some of the guilt and take the blame of why it happened. The victim has unrealistic hopes that the abuser will change.

The abuser may be an alcohol or drug user, very jealous and possessive, someone who isolates the victim from family and friends, and who does not trust the victim. The abuser wants total control of his/her victim and usually tries to make up for the violence after the incident.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of domestic violence, there is help. It is very important to get the victim out of the abusive situation. If you are assaulted and want help, you can call 911 and an officer will respond. You can also call the Domestic Violence Resource Center at (503) 640-5352 or toll free at 1-866-469-8600.

If you are a victim of domestic violence, you may ask the district attorney to file a criminal complaint. You also have the right to file a restraining order through the circuit court. This is an order that is served upon your abuser and he/she will be ordered not to go near you. If the abuser violates this Restraining Order, he or she will be arrested, and taken to jail. For further information on Restraining Orders, please call (503) 846-2352.

If you have any questions regarding domestic violence, please call any police department or the Domestic Violence Resource Center.