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The City of Portland, Oregon

Police Bureau

Sworn to protect. Dedicated to serve.

Phone: 503-823-0000

Non-Emergency: 503-823-3333

1111 S.W. 2nd Avenue, Portland, OR 97204

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What can I do to be safe?

Call the police
If you feel you are in danger from your abuser at any time, you can call: 9-1-1. If you want to talk to a confidential victim advocate, call the Portland Women's Crisis Line at 503-235-5333.
 
Consider the following:
  • If you are in danger when the police come, they can protect you.
  • They can help you and your children leave your home safely.
  • They can arrest your abuser when they have enough proof that you have been abused.
  • They can arrest your abuser if a protection order has been violated.
  • When the police come, tell them everything the abuser did that made you call.
  • If you have been injured, tell the police. Show them any injuries on your body. Injuries may take time to show up. If you see a mark after the police leave, call the police to take pictures or make an appointment with the Portland Police Identification Division. The pictures may be used in court.
  • If your abuser has broken any property, show the police.
  • The police can give you information on domestic violence programs and shelters.
  • The police must make a report saying what happened to you. Police reports can be used in court if your abuser is charged with a crime or when obtaining a protection order.
  • Get the officers' names, badge numbers in case you need a copy of the report.
  • A police report can be used to help you get a protection order.
Get support from friends and family
Tell your supportive family, friends and co-workers what has happened.
 
Find a safe place
You should not have to leave your home because of what your abuser has done. But sometimes it is the only way you will be safe. There are resources and shelters that can help you.
 
Get medical help
If you have been hurt, go to the hospital or your doctor. Medical records can be important in court cases. They can also help you obtain a protection order. Give all the information about your injuries and who hurt you that you feel safe to give.
 
Special medical concerns
  • Sometimes you may not even know you are hurt.
  • What seems like a small injury could be a big one.
  • If you are pregnant and you were hit in your stomach, tell the doctor. Many abusers hurt unborn children.
  • Domestic violence victims can be in danger of closed head injuries. This is because their abusers often hit them in the head. If any of these things happen after a hit to the head, seek medical care right away.
    • Memory loss
    • Dizziness
    • Problems with eyesight
    • Throwing-up
    • Headache that will not go away
How to obtain a protection order
 
Making a safety plan: plan what to do before or when you feel unsafe.
 
Free delf defense classes:
 
 
No More Domestic Violence