Woman Left Stunned And Terrified As Roommate Subleases Room To Her Abuser Despite Showing Proof Of A Restraining Order

“My roommate claims she can't find anyone else to take over and that I will ‘have to deal’..”

Jesse

• Published in Interesting
• September 14, 2023

Restraining orders play a pivotal role in safeguarding individuals. Beyond merely deterring potential threats, they instill a sense of security among those they protect.

Various types of restraining orders exist, each tailored to specific situations. One of the most prevalent is the non-molestation order. This can be sought when immediate protection from a spouse, former partner, or family member is necessary. Importantly, any violation of this order permits the authorities to arrest the offender.

Regrettably, some people don't seem to take the repercussions of such orders seriously, as can be seen in a recent post we found on the r/relationships subreddit.

OP shared that her roommate, Shelly, recently got the opportunity to study abroad for the summer. Consequently, she made an urgent decision to sublease her room for three months.

OP was fine with this arrangement and was happy that Shelly had finally found someone to take over. As expected, Shelly approached OP to show her who this new roommate would be.

To OP's surprise, this was no stranger; It was Pete—the same man who had harassed her as a freshman in college and even sexually assaulted her at a party.

OP wasted no time explaining the whole situation to Shelly. In addition, she pulled out court documents showing that she had gotten a restraining order against this man.

Despite this, Shelly argued that she was finding it difficult to get another person to take the room and that OP would just "have to deal." This left OP no choice but to inform the police about Pete's imminent arrival.

Nothing prepared her for the day that she would come face to face with her abuser once again. But from all indications, she's fully prepared to wither this storm.

Scroll down to find out how the story unfolds.

The story in detail

A little background

OP’s roommate, Shelly, found a sub-letter to take over her own room. But surprisingly, it was Pete

OP informed the police, as she couldn’t fathom the idea of living with her abuser

“I agree with the consensus of calling the police the moment he arrives.“

“Doesn't matter what's on the lease. A restraining order takes priority.“

“So, she posted a picture of you in the ad, and surprise, surprise your stalker is the one who answered it.”

“It might be worth asking a lawyer or some legal advice if you can lay charges against your flat mate.”

“Your restraining order is more significant than your lease.”

“She has enough knowledge that if she does turn over the apartment key, she is committing a criminal offense.“

“Obviously the law is on your side so either she or Pete is going to have to ‘just deal’..”

“Perhaps you should talk to the police about her putting you in danger.”

“Just call the cops the second Pete tries to move in.”

“She may have the right to sublet to whomever she wants, but Pete cannot move in.”

The commenters were taken aback by Shelly's nonchalance and insistence to sublease the apartment to someone who sexually abused her own roommate.

They further assured OP that informing the police immediately was the right to do. If he's smart enough, he won't come close to the house, knowing fully well who lives there.

We'd love to get your thoughts on this story. Join the conversation in the comments.

Jesse