This case may be akin to victims of gang violence who many times are afraid of retaliation if they testify. The batterer controls his victim, not only through physical violence, but terror and fear. Since most sentences for assault are ridiculously short (particularly if there is a plea bargain), abusers are going to get out in a short period of time. If their battered wives or girlfriends have testified against them, there is a real and substantial probability that they will “settle the score.” Who will protect the DV victim then?