February 8, 2018 Sometimes threats of domestic violence are not taken seriously, and as a result, innocent people lose their lives. Fortunately, Seattle police officers were able to intervene during a domestic dispute and arrest a man who had threatened to blow up his neighborhood. Around 9 p.m. on December 31, police officers responded to a call about domestic assault. The victim, a woman, had broken up with the man and ended their seven-year relationship. The man, who had been drinking, threw a flask at the woman and proceeded to threaten to blow up the neighborhood and kill himself. The man was hiding in the basement when police arrived, but eventually came out. The woman asked police to take the man’s guns. He was arrested and faces charges of domestic violence threats and assault. Domestic Violence in Washington Under Washington State Legislature RCW 26.50.010, domestic violence refers to stalking, sexual assault, bodily injury, physical harm or assault, or threats related to such actions, toward family or household members. Family and household members include spouses and domestic partners (current or former), children, grandchildren and adults related by blood or marriage. Washington is the only state in the nation that has a law requiring that domestic violence victims be notified if their abuser attempts to buy a gun. Victims tend to stay with the abuser due to fear, since breakups and separation often evoke even more abuse. Defenses to Domestic Violence There are two defenses to domestic violence. One is self-defense. If a person hits another solely to defend himself or herself, then he or she will likely not face domestic violence charges. Therefore, for example, a woman cannot hit a man and accuse him of domestic violence when he hits back in an effort to protect himself. Another defense would be that the incident was so minor that it wouldn’t make sense to prosecute it. Called de minimis infractions, these may include accidental incidents or honest mistakes, such as bumping into another person or slapping someone on the back as a friendly gesture. Get Help for Your Criminal Case Domestic violence can lead to injuries or death, so it is taken seriously. If you are facing charges, make sure you seek legal help right away. The criminal defense lawyers at the Nahajski Firm can provide you with a solid defense against domestic violence charges. We can help reduce or eliminate your charges altogether. To learn more, contact us at (206) 621-0500 for a free consultation.