At what point is it abuse?

[Bounceworld]

What is the name of your state? KY

My sister is married to a big guy who has become obsessed with the idea that she is having an affair... the postman, her professor at school, anyone who looks her way.

He's not physically absuive but definitely mentally abusive. He's started hiding her keys, tampering with her car, and even putting a club on the steering wheel in order to "trap" her at home (they live out in the country).

He's so obsessed, he's quit working. They have 2 kids and now she's going to school (when he doesn't sabotage her) and working to get the bills paid.

His latest thing is threatening to call the police if she takes the car and that since it's in his name, she'll be arrested, even though they are married!! A cop came out after a particularly ugly fight and confirmed that he could report the car as stolen and she'd be arrested for taking it!

Unbelievable... legally, what are her options? She's a little afraid of him and can't just tell him to leave.. he won't go. Does she have to wait til he hits her to get some help from the authorities?

Any advice appreciated...

 

[stealth2]

She could also contact the Nat'l Domestic Violence Hotline (www.ndvh.org) for information on how to proceed. But really, her most likely solution is to get out and file for divorce. So speaking with a local attorney wouldn't be a bad idea, either. Heh. Tell her to make sure it's a male to torque her husband - he's more likely to show his true colors.

 

[Bounceworld]

Thanks

Thanks for the helpful responses.

 

[Bounceworld]

After that response, I wouldn't invite her here under any circumstances. Thanks to the 2 people who had helpful things to say, but I think I'll find another forum.

If you can;t be helpful, why waste your time posting? Do you get off on being a jerk to people looking for help? Really sad...

 

[upset_wisconsin]

i am so sorry you have had a bad expierience. If your state has crisis centers she could go there if he is not working and your sister is the only one working than if he does not allow her to go to work by hiding her keys. If they have two kids that could be considered child neglect