Menu Close

Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is not caused by or provoked by the action or inaction of the victim. Domestic violence is not directly caused by alcohol or drug abuse, depression, lack of money, lack of a job, mental illness, or abuse as a child. However, existing problems often create additional stress in a relationship and may increase the risk of violence. Many abusers blame the victim or other things for their violent acts and do not take responsibility for the abusive behavior. There is NEVER an excuse for violence. If you or a loved one are a victim of domestic violence and need help, please contact the Holbrook Police Department at (781) 767-1212. For emergencies dial 911.

Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 209a defines the following:

Abuse

“Abuse”, the occurrence of one or more of the following acts between family or household members:

  1. attempting to cause or causing physical harm;
  2. placing another in fear of imminent serious physical harm;
  3. causing another to engage involuntarily in sexual relations by force, threat or duress.

Family Member or Household Member

  1. Are or were married to one another;
  2. Are or were residing together in the same household;
  3. Are or were related by blood or marriage;
  4. Having a child in common regardless of whether they have ever married or lived together

Are or have been in a substantive dating or engagement relationship, which shall be adjudged by district, probate or Boston municipal courts consideration of the following factors:

  • the length of time of the relationship; 
  • the type of relationship; 
  • the frequency of interaction between the parties; and 
  • if the relationship has been terminated by either person, the length of time elapsed since the termination of the relationship.

A person suffering from abuse from an adult or minor family or household member may file a complaint in the court requesting protection from such abuse. For questions regarding abuse protection orders and how to get an order, please call the Detective Sgt. Keysha Mitchell at (781) 767-6806 and in an emergency, dial 9-1-1.