Drunk man kicks in apartment door in Vienna-Ottakring and threatens former partner

Existing restraining order ignored

As the Vienna police further announced, the victim had already obtained a restraining order against her former partner in advance. This court order was intended to prohibit contact between the two. The fact that the man nevertheless came to the apartment and became violent there is regarded by the investigators as a violation of the order.

The 43-year-old received medical care after the crime. Whether she sustained serious injuries was initially unclear. The police announced that they would thoroughly process the incident and secure all relevant traces. The question of how the man was able to gain access to the building despite the existing order is also to be part of the investigations.

The case is part of a series of violent crimes that Vienna authorities have registered in recent months. Several aid organizations have long pointed out that restraining orders are meant to protect those affected, but in practice are not always sufficient to prevent further attacks. The City of Vienna maintains, among other things, the Clearinghouse against Domestic Violence for this purpose.

Investigations against the suspect

After his arrest, the suspect was transferred to a correctional facility. According to police, the competent public prosecutor's office will decide on any pre-trial detention. In parallel, a barring and approach ban was reviewed. The Vienna police pointed out in this context that tips from the public would be promptly taken up.

The investigations are now proceeding in several directions. In addition to the question of the violation of the restraining order, it concerns the suspicion of bodily harm and threat. A possible burglary charge due to the forcible opening of the door is also being examined. Police asked any further witnesses to report to the nearest city police command.

Contact points for those affected

Victim protection organizations emphasize that those affected by domestic violence in Austria can also obtain help anonymously via the women's helpline. The Clearinghouse against Domestic Violence in Vienna also offers counseling and support. In the current case, the victim is being cared for by social workers, according to the information.

The Vienna police want to use the incident as an opportunity to draw attention once again to the effectiveness of restraining orders. Even if such an order does not provide absolute protection, it does increase the likelihood that perpetrators can be identified and brought to account more quickly.

The investigations are ongoing. The police initially provided no information about the exact age of the suspect. There was also initially no confirmed information on the man's motive – in particular whether contact with the ex-wife still existed or whether it was about their joint child.