How can I protect myself from my abusive ex? What are my rights?

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I am asking this question on behalf on my friend. Please any and all information will be grately appreciated. My friend was in a 14 year relationship, which she ended over a year and a half ago. She left her lover, Randi. Randi is currently studying pre-law and she seems to be using any and all means to continue to be emotionally abusive to Sheila. Randi has placed 2 restraining orders on Sheila, once last year, which when Randi did not appear on the court date, all of it was dropped. However, I must inform you of the emotional roller coaster that Sheila went thru and continues to go thru. Recently, Randi placed another restraining order on Sheila. Both restraining orders have been done so under perjury. How can the police allow such perjury without proof? The police even came out and spoke with Sheila to investigate Randi's charges. They said they could arrest Sheila however see no reason to do so as she appears calm. On the other hand, after interviewing Randi they said instead of seeing fear in this so-called victim, they sensed only anger. Since this second restaining order was issued Randi has sent mail to Sheila and as of yesterday paged her boss with a 911 message. My question for Sheila is what rights does she have? Who protects her from a person who wants to have so much control over her? It appears that Randi is so full of vengeance because Sheila is trying to move on with her life. Randi has only to make one phone call to the police again and Sheila could be arrested with the next lie. Please respond with any resources or readings or suggestions as to what Sheila can do so she is not afraid to go outside, let alone stay indoors, and everytime she hears a police siren, feel scared. Thank you!

-- Anonymous, March 23, 2000

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