What would you do?

[PaulS]

You did right. If someone else threatens her, call the police on them also. I know you didn't want him arrested originally but he can't control his temper so its on him, not on you. Tom's advice was good also. She may be .0001% at fault for allowing this and you need to discuss this with her. Good luck.

[Jimbo]

No doubt she's a larger part of the equation than .0001%. They just push each other's buttons and it's simply astounding to me that a couple of kids couldn't realize they're miserable when they're together, especially when things have escalated to the point we're at today. Two headstrong kids who have all the answers and pretty consistently show little little respect for parents and other people's property or anyone in a position of authority or right thinking. Unfortunately there's been too many, "We'll bail you out this time". I don't like to be that person, but I don't know that it won't come to that.
I'm still appreciating all the advice.

[FishermanTim]

I always get a charge out of the "We'll bail you out THIS time" ploy.
The one that usually ends up bailing them out is the mother, who "doesn't want their baby sitting in jail" when that's EXACTLY what he/she needs!
Unfortunatley our legal system would punish the person protecting their child more than the person attacking that child. Remember the 3 strike rule? Apparently our judges have. How else do you account for so many repeat offenders that have never spent any time behind bars?

Anyway, my sentiments are still the same: I hope he smartens up and gets his act together, and she wakes up and realizes just what kind of "guy" he is.
The alternative is an escalating bouts of abuse, reconcilliation, more abuse, more reconcilliation....until......(Let's not think those thoughts.)