For the past several months, a 54 year old man was allegedly subjected to repeated physical abuse inside the 39 Garrison Road home he shared with his male partner in Pitcairn.

Officials with the St. Lawrence County Sheriff's Department said the abuse was so bad that the victim suffered black eyes for more than two weeks as well as other bruises.

The attacks allegedly came at the hands of 40 year old Harold Ober, and included months of physical abuse including punches to the face.

Over the weekend, officials said the victim was again attacked by Ober, this time with a thick wooden stick injuring his arms and legs.
 
The alleged victim managed to escape and flee down the road where he notified authorities.

"Domestic partners can be of the same sex, opposite sex, it doesn't matter what the combination. Law enforcement takes domestic violence pretty seriously in the county," said Sheriff Kevin Wells.
 
Ober was charged with felony assault and two misdemeanor counts of menacing.

He remains free under probation supervision.

Ileen Burke is the executive director of Renewal House, which provides services for victims of domestic violence.

She says there are no boundaries when it comes to domestic violence.

"It could happen to anyone whether they're rich or poor, heterosexual or same-sex relationships," said Burke.
 
Last year, Renewal House provided services to more than 940 individuals, including 30 males, more than 670 females and 242 children.

Victims of domestic violence can call Renewal House's 24 hour hotline at 379-9845 or the Sheriff's Office at 379-2222.