Domestic Violence

Did you know that Officer B. Sholter is Woodlawn's Domestic Violence Coordinator? Officer Sholter has extensive training and resources to assist those who may have questions about domestic violence issues. Please feel free to call her to find out how she can reach out to you or a loved one today.  410-887-4714.

Cycle of Violence

• An abusive partner maintains power and control.
• Domestic Violence tends to run in cycles:
• Tension Building.....Battering Incidents....."Honeymoon Phase"
• The "Honeymoon phase"  is when the violence has temporarily stopped. Your partner may even feel bad and promise to change.  Unfortunately, if your partner does not acknowledge and take responsibility for the destructiveness of his/her actions, the cycle is likely to repeat itself.

Stay Safe

• If you see an argument coming, go to a room that has access to an exit. Avoid rooms with lots of hard surfaces (like bathrooms) or rooms with things that can be used as weapons (like kitchens with knives). Visualize an escape route!
• Use your instincts and judgment. Do whatever you think best to calm things down and try and get out of the situation.
• Try to stay in a room that has a telephone so that you may call 911. When the police respond, make sure they document injuries or other damage, even if there is no arrest. If you are hurt, seek medical attention. Save any documentation or pictures.

You DO NOT deserve to be hurt or threatened!!

Recognize the Signs

• Lashes out, call names or demeans partner
• Uses fear through intimidating statements and actions
• Acts pathetic to exploit victim's sympathy and guilt
• Makes persistent phone calls
• Shows up without warning at victims work, school
• Follows victim
• Possessive to the point of controlling behavior.
• Tries to enlist family & friends in an attempt to maintain the relationship.
• Fights with others over the intimate partner.
• Abusive towards children and animals
• Public display of anger or ridicule towards women.
• Fells a sense of entitlement like "everybody owes me".

Orders of Protection

You may obtain an order of protection by visiting your local courthouse. Some orders may be obtained 24 hours a day.

Baltimore County Locations

The Circuit Court Building is located at 401 Bosley Avenue, Towson.

Important Numbers

Revised June 25, 2009