Matthew Torres, a 34-year-old York County, PA, resident was arrested this summer for repeatedly violating a PFA order that had been filed against him. He has been charged with two misdemeanors relating to an alleged incident that took place on June 1st.

When Torres showed up at the home of the York woman who had filed the PFA against him at 11:25 pm, the victim heard a gunshot and called police. The officer who arrived at the victim's home searched the area but did not find Torres. The police department was able to get footage of Torres in the vicinity of the woman's home from a neighbor's security camera. The footage shows Torres holding a handgun but not firing it.

What Does a PFA Order Do?

A PFA is a court order that is meant to keep someone safe from a person who has harmed them or has threatened to harm them in the past. It is one of three types of protection orders available in Pennsylvania:

• PFA: Protection from Abuse orders protect against stalking and physical or sexual abuse by a family member, a dating partner, or an intimate partner.
• SVP: Protection From Sexual Violence orders protect against sexual from someone the victim does not have an intimate relationship with, like a stranger, a friend, or a co-worker.
• PFI: Protection From Intimidation orders protect minors from being stalked or harassed by an adult with whom they do not have an intimate relationship.

Is Contact Allowed Under a PFA?

When they take out a PFA, victims of actual or threatened abuse from a family member or intimate partner can ask that abuser be prevented from contacting them in any way. This usually means the abuser cannot text, call, or email them, or show up at their house or anywhere else to speak to them in person, or even send them letters or gifts. Any kind of contact, if their PFA contains this provision, is considered a violation of the PFA.

Why Is Contacting Victim with a PFA a Problem?

Any contact from their abuser can make a victim feel unsafe. In addition, messages, visits, or calls by an abuser can easily escalate and become violent. For example, a perpetrator who repeatedly violates a PFA by sending texts might eventually show up at the victim's house or workplace if they feel they need a more direct form of communication, putting their victim in immediate danger.

Consequences for Violating a PFA with a No-Contact Provision

If you violate PFA order in any way – whether it's through direct or indirect contact – you could face serious legal consequences. This includes but is not limited to fines, jail time, and an increase in the restrictions placed on you by the order. These consequences will vary depending on factors like your criminal history and whether or not the violation involved physical contact.

Reach Out for Legal Help

If a PFA has been issued against you, or you have one against someone else, and that order has been violated, you need legal help regarding what to do next.

The team at the LLF Law Firm have years of experience helping clients deal with PFA orders, so they know what to do to ensure that your rights are protected.

Contact the LLF Law Firm today at 888-535-3686.