Hi Deb, I don't know how old you are so it is hard to advise you on how to stay away from this man. I would say yes it is abuse if you felt threatened and I would try not to be around him much. Easier said then done. You have the right to an attorney of your own. I don't know the rules in New York but if you were to call family court and ask how to get a guardian ad litem they could help, or simply call an attorney who you know has worked for children before and tell him/her what you want. If you feel in danger with him you can say that to the authority people and try to get away. Good luck.