fbf
very true in all your comments. It is dangerous.
I helped a friend escape 1 1/2 yrs ago. She came to stay at my place for 1 week, until she got into a shelter. I took care of her dog, and found a home for him with my parents (he is in the "witness protection program" haha).
Her ex harrassed me at my job (I am a street vendor, selling artwork) and I had to have the cops talk to him.
Then I had friends of mine TELL HIM (if you know what I mean) he had better leave me alone.
So I agree it is dangerous!!! I think a lot of people could help and give more solid support, though. I wanted to get people thinking in these terms "what can I do?"
I knew I was taking a risk, but I also knew I was strong enough and had the support/backup to protect myself if need be.
As for calling police, I agree it can put the woman at risk. Here in Canada, the police MUST arrest the aggressor, even if the woman does not want them to. It gives her a few hours to escape.
It is hard to know exactly what to do, but we as a community need to share in exposing abusers and REALLY helping those being victimized instead of always blaming them for not leaving.
So, I guess every case is different - you sound like you know what you are talking about I hope it was not your experience.
Note to male abuse victims: By speaking of the aggressor as 'him' and the victim as the 'woman', I am not trying to minimize your abuse and your personal situation. To be honest, we need more support for YOU. It's a shame that people don't recognize that partner abuse goes female - male as well. lol
tal