I agree wholeheartedly that domestic violence is definitely a shameful form of cowardice, however solving this insidious problem is no simple matter. As a former police officer, I attended countless domestic violence calls and most had a familiar genesis. The incident was evoked by either love, jealousy, arguments over child custody or allegedly unprovoked rage. The catalyst for the vast majority of these scenarios was over-consumption of alcohol and/or drugs. Once under the influence of these stimulants, rationality goes by the way and no amount of education can counter that. I cannot foresee the prohibition of alcohol being revisited and we are experiencing governments decriminalising illicit drugs, so the catalyst will always be there. I know that the authorities will strive for a solution and I wish them the best of luck. Chris Wares, Bateau Bay 15July2024
Thank you, Officer
Thank you to letter writer Chris Wares for his brilliant letter, offering valuable first-hand insights of an ex-policeman confronting domestic violence (DT, 15/7). While there was sensible agreement with The Daily Telegraph’s campaign to alter the descriptor language to ensure that violent partners are derided, Mr Wares correctly concludes that the cowardice starts when an individual has such low self esteem that jealousy overwhelms them. It often starts when making the choice to take illicit drugs. In fact, being cowardly is a lifestyle choice, taken days, months or even years before an ugly domestic violence incident is investigated by police. Thanks to Officer Chris Wares for his lifetime police service. Alan Sexton, North Parramatta 16July2024