What would happen if we reported it to the police?

My bestfriend has been in an abusive relationship for about a year now. I've been begging her, pleading with her to break up with him and get her life back together but she's always been to afraid and she says she still "loves" him. I know how abusive relationships work and he's been manipulative from the very start.

They got into a fight last night and she's left with multiple contusions and cuts all over her body. She's finally ready to report what happened to the police but at the same time she's scared for what's going to happen to him because she's still attached. Plus she says he'll just get her back and end up hurting her worse - typical abuse victim way of thinking.

What will happen when we go to the police? will there be a warrant for his arrest?

BHO bows to muslims

if she's got marks you should call the cops and get a restraining order (which will probably not stop him) and a gun (which will stop him).

Diana B

The police may not need an arrest. In NYC, once they have a credible report of a crime and a suspect, the police will simply arrest the suspect and process him like any criminal.

This will require 1st hand knowledge rather than hearsay.

David Nowlin

These things vary by state and even county, but the general rule is that, Yes, he'll be arrested. If this is his first offense and he didn't hurt her badly (ie, put out an eye, break a bone) he will probably get probation. He won't spend more than a day or two in jail, if he can make his bond. It is, therefore, very important that you obtain a protective order during this process so that he is barred from being near her in the future. If he violates that protective order while he's on probation, then he goes to jail. Again, not very long, but long enough to make an impression perhaps.

Cabbie Luvr

They would take a report, possibly investigate and take proper action. No one will be arrested on the word of another unless the person is effecting a citizens arrest and assuming all legal liability for the arrest.

Misdemeanors must be committed in the officers presence for him or her to effect a proper arrest.

MisterB206

It depends on 2 things:
1- the state you live in
2- if the police decide to pursue charges

In some states, reporting abuse will get the significant other arrested and what police do regarding arresting depends on if they feel there is enough evidence to arrest him. Keep in mind that in some states, she has to tell them she wants to press charges... whereas in others, the police can press the charges, even if the victim doesn't want them to.

Caromel-QT

Yes there will be a warrant and yes if she decides to press charges he will be arrested but ONLY if she presses charges. also if she goes to the precent and they see the bruises and scars the judge will grant a restraining order. Speaking from a survivor I know what it's like and WE have the tendency to think they will change, but you continue to be there for her and help her through this ordeal bacause it can take a toll on a person, but with prayer and perceverance she CAN and WILL make it through. I wish you guys all the best and I pray she makes the right decision to put this guy away, stay away from him and move on with her life. God Bless.

Beautica

You should keep out of it, since it looks like you're talking to a wall anyway. These types of women never follow through, they never listen to the police, when the cops do file a complaint on their behalf , they always want to drop the charges. They go back for more of the same and guess what? That's her perogative. You say yourself she has the 'typical abuse victim way of thinking'. You are wasting your precious time. However, if she has kids, and she lets him beat on them, then you should report both him and her to the child protection agencies where you live.

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