Q: My roommate (we are subleasing) has a warrant. Her boyfriend, has become physically abusive as of today....
My friend is being physically abused by her boyfriend. We all live here. My friend has a warrant and we are subletting. It took every bit of restraint I had to not hurt him severely and repeatedly. My dear friend was beat to death by her boyfriend when I was younger. We are subletting. With a hand written agreement. I do not want her to go to jail until we can arrange to post bond. He is an Afghan vet, allegedly a combat veteran, though he talks about his experiences more than anyone I know who has seen war fare. How do I help my friend without getting her arrested or resulting to violence. I cannot have him charged with false valor without access to his service jacket. And without a lease I do not know if I can file a protection order. He left for a job interview, hoping you can give me an answer asap. I have a misdemeanor case pending as well and am on a PR bnd which I do not want to violate, but it seems likely that there will be violence. What do I do?
A: Since you are not the victim you cannot proceed with a DV claim or restraining order. Defending the roommate is not advisable--there is a realistic possibility that you could be charged with assault and battery if you do. Military violations of the nature you are describing will not result in jail time. The only way to begin any PO is to call the police. Since you do not want to get the police involved, the only option is to avoid the fights and, if possible, terminate the sublease.
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