Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is a pattern of behavior used by one person to maintain power or control over another. This can include threats, physical abuse, sexual abuse, or emotional abuse. Domestic violence can follow a particular pattern, such as the cycle of violence, or may be random acts. The cycle of violence includes three phases: a tension building phase, an acute violent incident, and a honeymoon phase. During the tension building phase, the abuser frequently argues with the victim and becomes easily frustrated. Abuse occurs during the acute violent incident phase and is followed by a honeymoon phase. During the honeymoon phase, the abuser apologizes for their actions and promises that they’ll never do it again. This phase often gives the victim hope that the abuser will change their behavior.
For more information on Lowell Police Department’s Domestic Violence Resources click here.
Domestic violence crosses all social, economic, racial, cultural and religious boundaries. If you or a loved one are a victim of domestic violence and need help, please contact Lowell Police Communications at 978-937-3200 for emergencies please call 911.
Prevention
A person suffering from abuse from an adult or minor family or household member may file a complaint in the court requesting protection from such abuse. For questions regarding abuse protection orders (209A or Restraining Order) and how to get an order, please call the Lowell Police Communications at 978-937-3200 and in an emergency 911.
Domestic Violence and 209A FAQs
Services for Victims and Families
Alternative House is a nonprofit organization that provides a variety of services for domestic violence victims including emergency shelter, legal advocacy and support, community education and training, and access to a confidential crisis hotline.
- 24 hour crisis hotline: 1-888-291-6228
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
The Center for Hope and Healing, Inc. (21 George Street, Suite 400, Lowell, MA) is a sexual assault program that provides services including individual counseling, legal advocacy, general advocacy, and a 24/7 hotline for survivors.
- Phone: 978-452-7721
- 24 hour line: 800-542-5212
Wayside Youth & Family Support Network is a nonprofit organization that provides family support services and offers in-home therapy. For more information on Wayside in Lowell, please click here.
To view a list of resources for victims of domestic violence in Spanish, Khmer, Arabic, Swahili, or Portuguese, please visit the links listed below.
Resources for Victims (Spanish)
Resources for Victims (Khmer)
Resources for Victims (Arabic)
Resources for Victims (Swahili)
Resources for Victims (Portuguese)