Two days prior to her death Zina Haughton obtained a domestic abuse restraining order against her husband, who was also her killer. Under this protection, a respondent is required to surrender any firearms. Additionally, respondents are prohibited by law from "committing acts or threats of domestic abuse against the petitioner." This includes: "avoiding ... any location... occupied by the petitioner" and contacting the petitioner in any way.
Restraining orders are granted if a judge believes the filing party is in imminent danger - Legally defined as: "intentional infliction of or threat to inflict physical pain,... injury or illness; impairment of physical condition; damage to ... property; or sexual contact ... without consent."
HELP of Door County, Inc. provides legal advocacy, including assistance filing restraining orders, and safety planning, because although a restraining order can be a deterrent for some, for others-- such as the Brookfield shooter, Radcliffe Haughton -- it can escalate situations.
To learn more about staying safe in your relationship, please call the domestic abuse hotline, (920) 743-8818.
