Domestic violence has become an epidemic that cannot be controlled or cured. The laws governing domestic violence must be amended to allow the courts to impose longer prison terms for those who think that they are real macho and cowardly beat on the wives, girlfriends and children.

Several weeks ago, I read a story in the newspaper about domestic violence and about a single parent with four children — a victim of domestic violence twice divorced because both husbands cowardly beat her and her children. What was most disturbing to read was that when she told her father about the beatings, he literally told her "You must have asked for it." That caused my temperature to rise.

Housewives and women who are victims of domestic violence should take courses in self defense, get in touch with their elected representatives, alert local law enforcement, attend group meetings of women against domestic violence or get a restraining order if necessary. They should not allow themselves to become victimized. They have to find the courage to protect themselves and their children against the cowards; it could mean saving lives, of themselves and their children.

Victims of domestic violence should not prolong the agony; do whatever is necessary to get those cowards off the streets and confined.

Robert LaCombe, Sabattus