Abuse of Power

THE clearinghouse on police-perpetrated domestic violence

...dedicated to providing advocacy, training & consulting services specific to police-perpetrated domestic violence

Mission Statement

This Web site is for and by women who have been abused by intimate partners who are police officers or firefighters.

There are no statistics that tell us what percentage of officers and firefighters emotionally abuse and physically batter their intimate partners. All we know is that there are many of them. We know because we have heard their victims' stories and seen their victims' bruises. We know because we have buried so many of their victims.

We are not implying that all firefighters or all police officers are controlling, dominating, or abusive in their intimate relationships. We recognize that many, hopefully most, police and fire couples maintain loving relationships with a healthy balance of power.

Men and women who choose to be police or fire officers face unique challenges, stresses and problems. Most recognize when they or their family members need help. There are many resources, books and therapists available to police and fire families who occasionally need help coping. But a woman who is battered by an intimate partner who is a firefighter or police officer is marginalized or even ignored. If you are one of these victims, you know it is not easy to find help or information.

Our Goals

Break our isolation.
Confront the system.
Educate all those who feel the impact of this crime.

We hope you will find the material helpful as you search for your own unique way to take back your life.