Abuse prevention orders or, what are often referred to as a "209A" or "restraining" orders, was the subject of a recent question.  Since most orders of Chapter 209A of the General Laws apply to "Family or Household Members," I was asked to clarify the term "dating relationship" as it applies to the statute.  What does it mean and who does it cover?
            Chapter 209A Section 1 defines the individuals eligible for certain protection orders.  One of the categories of protection applies to individuals who "are or have been in a substantive dating or engagement relationship."  This is not clearly defined in the law.  It is the ultimate decision of the judge in the courts to decide exactly the extent of the relationship.  The law does provide some guidance and direction for the judges in their decision making. They consider the length and type of the relationship.  They also consider the frequency of contact and, if it has been terminated by either party, the length of time since the relationship's end.  If there is sufficient information to warrant the relationship be deemed "substantive," the person will be eligible for a protection order.
            These orders are serious and a violation is a criminal offense.  Penalties include fines of up to five thousand dollars and/or a jail term of up to two and one half years.  These are present to afford protections to abuse victims and their families and should be given the appropriate level of consideration.

I wish to take a moment to thank the public and the local media outlets for the assistance in solving a recent break in.  Several thousand dollars for the Dudley Little League raffle fund was stolen on April 2nd.  With assistance from the public, our officers were able to identify three individuals involved in this incident and recover a large portion of the money.  This is an example of how police departments can be more effective when the community and the department work in partnership to prevent and solve crimes.  Thanks to all involved for their assistance.

Once again, the Dudley Police Department, along with many other state and local agencies throughout the Commonwealth, will be participating in the “Click It or Ticket” and “You Drink, You Drive, You Lose” campaign sponsored through a grant from the Governors Highway Safety Bureau.  We are currently engaged in the “Road Respect” program and there will be designated patrols on the roadways focusing on erratic or aggressive operators.  Please be aware of these additional officers out on patrol and remember to buckle up and drive defensively.

Thanks again for your questions and comments.  Please send them to me at the Dudley Police Department 71 West Main St., Dudley, Ma. 01571 or email at swojnar@dudleypolice.com. 

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