Domestic Violence Crisis Center

Domestic Violence is an abusive behavior whereby a person intends to establish and maintain power and control over a person with whom she/he has or has had, a significant personal (usually intimate) relationship. Power and control are exerted through physical, sexual, psychological, and/ or economic means. Examples of domestic violence include, but are not limited to:

• Intimidation
• Threats to cause harm
• Verbal harassment
• Crimes against property
• Violation of an interim protective order, protective order or peace order
• Display or discussion of weapons
• Assault and battery
• Rape
• Stalking

For a victim or potential victim of domestic violence, the best advice is to prepare a safety plan in anticipation of needing to leave a violent situation. Then one can avoid an accelerating violent situation by having a place to go and a support system in place. In Prince George's County, both The Family Crisis Center and House of Ruth provide good advice on safety plans.

If immediate assistance is needed call 9-1-1