Protection from Abuse orders, or PFAs, prevent thousands of people from getting hurt – or hurting others – in Pennsylvania every year. While they are usually an effective deterrent from abuse, withdrawing a PFA removes the extra layer of protection that a person seeks, rendering them susceptible to danger at any time. For one young mother of four, this lesson comes too little, too late, and her husband is now behind bars for fatally shooting her in their Harrisburg home.

Kyra Haley was just 24 when she died. Her husband, Dallas Haley, punched a closet in their home last September, leaving behind shattered glass and a terrified family. This incident was the last straw for Kyra, who was a victim of abuse since 2016. Kyra applied for a protective order last September, citing that she did not feel safe with her husband and planned to file for a divorce. But only five days before the scheduled hearing, Kyra withdrew the petition.

Police found her body in the couple's home in late October. Kyra died in the hospital after suffering from a gunshot wound to her left shoulder.

Multiple Charges, Numerous Problems

Dallas Haley is not a first-time offender and was on probation when the incident happened. Only two days before Kyra withdrew her petition, he pleaded guilty to trying to buy a shotgun without disclosing his prior domestic violence convictions. Although most alleged offenders do not end up fatally shooting their partners, it only takes one altercation or trigger for an incident to spiral out of control.

Even though Kyra withdrew her PFA petition, violations of these orders occur frequently. Violating a PFA is a criminal offense that leads to numerous legal challenges for a defendant. In addition to a fine and additional jail time, nonobservance can lead to a charge of contempt for violating the court order's terms. If criminal charges are pending, that could mean prison time and a harsher sentence.

No matter how strongly you feel about your case, going against the court creates an additional layer of problems. It can wreak havoc on your life and affect your criminal record. This advice applies even when you are innocent. For the best possible outcome, you need an aggressive criminal defense attorney who knows the stakes and is willing to fight for you in court.

Why You Need a PA Criminal Defense Attorney

Loss of home, reputation, and family – these are only the tip of the iceberg for defendants at the receiving end of a PFA. No matter the circumstances, one unfortunate incident should not become an event that defines you and ruins your life. The good news is that you never have to face the court alone. PA Criminal Law Team is your ally when you have nowhere to turn.

When you work with the LLF Law Firm, you receive practical advice, unparalleled legal representation, and the edge you need to fight back against abuse allegations. Call the LLF Law Firm today at 888-535-3686 to schedule a private and confidential consultation for your case.