The offender has been released and I/my child is afraid to leave the house or go to school. What can we do? Why isn the defendant in custody?
First make a safety plan that addresses what you and your child can do to escape from any contact. Practice with your child what to do if the offender comes around, teach your child how to call 911. Talk to your neighbors about providing a safe meeting place for you and your child if you do have to leave in an emergency. Obtain a Restraining Order, carry the order with you at all times. Provide copies of the order to your child’s school and your workplace. Call Victims Assistance at 503-988-3222 to speak with an advocate about safety planning. There are many reasons why a defendant is not in custody. The Multnomah County Sheriff is responsible for making most release decisions, and the defendant may be on a supervised pre-trial release program or may have posted a bond.
