A Florida man’s taste in music allegedly started a fight that landed his boyfriend in jail recently. The 24-year-old man was arrested after allegedly hitting the victim in the face with a plate, according to a police report. The 24-year-old was arrested on domestic violence charges. When asked what sparked the fight, the accused said it was the victim’s constant playing of Alanis Morissette music.
A domestic violence arrest can have serious consequences. Those accused of domestic violence may be prohibited from entering their home. The alleged victim can obtain a restraining order preventing any contact not only with the victim, but often also the couple’s children. And an arrest for domestic violence can result in a permanently damaged reputation in the community.
False allegations of domestic violence do occur. Sometimes the alleged victim is motivated by revenge or by a desire to gain an advantage in a divorce or custody proceeding. Unfortunately, law enforcement authorities will often make an arrest in these cases at a very early stage on the theory that doing so will prevent additional violence from occurring.
A person charged with domestic violence does have rights. He or she has the right to an attorney, the right to a trial by jury and the right to confront and cross-examine the witnesses against them. An experienced domestic violence defense lawyer can investigate the case, interview witnesses and present a solid defense at trial. If the defense is able to identify inconsistencies in witness statements and weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, the prosecution may drop or substantially reduce the charges before trial.
Source: The Huffington Post, “Alanis Morissette Music Leads to Domestic Abuse: Cops,” Oct. 17, 2012
