End domestic violence in the Valley

To the editor:

The Mat-Su chapter of the of The Alaska Police Officer’s Association would like to take this opportunity to remind all that October was Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Domestic violence takes a tremendous toll on Alaska’s families, and it is sad to say that Alaska leads the nation in incidents of domestic violence. If we as a community are serious in trying to reduce these incidents and remove this shameful distinction, we will have to develop an attitude of zero tolerance toward such behavior. We must encourage victims and witnesses to report these crimes to the police and we must also encourage the perpetrators to seek help.

Only by removing the veil of secrecy surrounding this crime and with community awareness and involvement can we hope to solve this shameful problem.

For assistance in the Mat-Su area contact Alaska Family Services at 746-4080 or the shelter at 746-8026.

Sam Edwards

President

Mat-Su Chapter Alaska

Police Officer’s Association.