I don't want to think it is possible that faculty are allowed to be abusive if they wish, but I don't and can't rule out that possibility.  Reality has shown me much atrocity like this already.  People who have power given freedom to use it.  I don't like conflict, but being good is not in everyone these days.  We are being hit with negativity on levels never seen before.  That is why a good list of defenses is worth having.