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Nothing 'domestic' about violence
The ceremony, memorializing those who have died as a result of physical abuse in the home, followed a series of speeches to mark October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Judge John B. Leete, the keynote speaker, said that despite greater public awareness and tougher laws, "Domestic violence is a continuing and serious problem right here in Potter County." Leete said he has a broader understanding of the complex psychological and social issues that contribute to the problem, thanks in part to the public education activities of "A Way Out," the county's domestic violence coalition and resource center. "It's extremely important that we continue to send the message, especially to younger people, that domestic violence is always wrong," the judge said. "It's never justified, and victims do have alternatives to remaining in an abusive relationship." Leete, whose job is to hand down sentences to those convicted of any crime in Potter County, said those found guilty of domestic violence in his court can expect to face a prison term. "It's not always the answer," Leete said about sentencing convicted abusers to jail. "But it's a humbling experience for most people and often the only way to change the balance of power." Leete went on to say that he has learned that abuse in the home is most often a situation of power and control. "Taking that power (away) can give victims the opportunity to control their own lives again," he said. Potter County District Attorney Dawn Fink also promised to be tough in her approach to prosecuting domestic violence offenders. She pointed out that her challenge in prosecuting many cases, and determining the extent of the problem in Potter County, is difficult to measure because victims are sometimes reluctant to come forward, either because they are fearful or because they have reconciled with the offender. "The District Attorney's office does not tolerate it and we will prosecute it," she said. "We will do whatever we can to make every home truly safe." Both Leete and Fink commended the staff and volunteers of A Way Out. The judge said the quality of service provided by Potter County's organization is "unmatched in the state." Freda Fultz, executive director of A Way Out, said the candlelight ceremony in Potter County has been an annual tradition since 1993. Four other members of the organization joined in an historic retrospective of domestic violence and society's response to it. Bob Kuhl, staff attorney for A Way Out, discussed revisions to Pennsylvania's Protection From Abuse Act. While recent changes may seem insignificant, penalties are tougher, and victims now find it easier to stand up to abusers.
"It's all about ensuring the safety of the family," Kuhl said.
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