Virginians may have heard about the alleged domestic violence incident between Track Palin and his girlfriend in Wasilla, Alaska. The son of the former Alaskan governor and 2008 vice presidential candidate was charged with fourth-degree assault as well as possessing a firearm while intoxicated and interfering with a domestic violence report. The 26-year-old reportedly punched his girlfriend and kicked her in the knee before holding an assault rifle close to his head.
Palin’s 22-year-old girlfriend reported that he yelled, ‘Do you think I won’t do it?” His girlfriend, whose identity has not been disclosed by the media, was reportedly concerned that Palin would shoot himself and ran out of the house, then back inside to hide under a bed. When police found her after responding to 911 calls from both Palin and his girlfriend, she was crying underneath the bed.
The woman reportedly had bruising and swelling over her left eye as well as pain in her knee. Officers located the AR-15 assault rifle in the kitchen. According to Palin, the domestic violence began when he discovered that his girlfriend was in contact with a former boyfriend.
The possession of firearms while under the influence of alcohol adds more complexity to this domestic violence case. A lawyer may be able to assist with the process of filing a restraining order against a spouse or partner who is abusive or threatening. Whether firearms are involved or not, a restraining order may help prevent the abusive partner from attempting to further contact or threaten the victim.