Wisconsin man surrenders to police after domestic standoff

Police arrested a Waukesha man after a four-hour standoff at his home. Law enforcement went to the home on a domestic violence call. The man’s wife told them her husband had threatened to kill the police if she ever called them. Although the man ultimately surrendered peacefully, court records say he told the officers he would have shot them if he knew they were outside. He allegedly said that he and “two or three cops” would have been dead. The man is now charged with terrorizing his wife and threatening the officers.

Wisconsin has a comprehensive domestic violence law. Under state statute, arrests are mandatory in domestic violence situations even when the victim does not cooperate with the authorities. The mandatory arrest requirement is an important aspect of the law because victims of domestic violence often refuse to press charges due to their fear of further abuse.

It is not easy for a victim of domestic violence to leave an abusive relationship. Many fear what their abusers will do if they leave. Others have been isolated from their friends and family or controlled financially. Some may maintain hope that the abusive partner will change. Advocates for domestic violence victims say those suffering in an abusive relationship should seek help using the many resources that are available to victims of spousal abuse.

If you are the victim of domestic violence, a domestic abuse hotline or shelter is one place to seek support. Another option is to seek the assistance of an experienced family law attorney. The attorney can help you get out of a violent or abusive situation and put you in touch with other professionals who can provide additional support.

Source: 620WTMJ.com, “Court for Waukesha domestic violence standoff suspect,” Melissa McCrady, Dec. 12, 2012