Domestic Violence
Domestic violence or family violence is the abuse of power or control. It is behavior used by one person to control another through force or threats. A batterer makes a choice to strike, hit, kick, punch, or threaten the victim.听Domestic violence includes physical and sexual attacks and threats. These violent acts are criminal, and the batterer can be prosecuted for committing them. These acts are a means of controlling the victim's thoughts, feelings and behavior.
If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, it is important to know that help is available to you. It is important to know that there are a variety of resources available to you both on and off campus. Please refer to the information below to see what steps you can take to protect yourself or someone you know.
Resources and Phone Numbers
Salem State听University Police Department: Criminal Investigations听978.542.6125
Salem State听University Police听Department Emergency:听978.542.6111
Salem听State University听Police Department (Non-Emergency):听978.542.6511
Healing Abuse Working for Change (H.A.W.C.): Hotline:听978.744.6841听 Office:听978.744.8552
Salem Police Station: Non-Emergency:听978.744.0171
Emergency: 911
What you need to know
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A Note to Abusers
Batterers should seek help from counselors or batterer treatment centers. This behavior is voluntary and can be controlled if you truly want it to.听Be aware that changes in the laws give the police power of arrest if they have probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed involving abuse. The police will act, and the District Attorney's office can prosecute even if the victim is not willing to testify in court. Domestic violence will not be tolerated!