Domestic Violence is defined as:

• Any coercive, intimidating behaviour designed to establish and maintain dominance and control over another.
• Any pattern of behaviour that is recurrent and escalating in frequency and severity
• Any physical sexual or psychological harm attempted or caused to another family member and includes:

  • Assault/Sexual Assault
  • Threatening
  • Harassment/Intimidation
  • Forcible Confinement

   

Reference: Toronto Police "Domestic Violence Information Handbook (SP316E, 1999/09)"