This is in response to the editorial of Jan. 29. It was regarding the Scott Poirier case. At the end of that column there was a sentence that struck me hard: “There’s no reason for the suffering silence, anymore.”

That sounds like the words of someone who doesn’t have a clue.

Sure, there is a good legal system in place for those who commit sexual crimes, but the editorial writer really dropped the ball with that last sentence. No reason for “suffering silence”?

So, because the law is willing to prosecute, victims should come forward and speak out? Do you have any idea how difficult it is for men to share something so personally traumatic? Especially when those men were raised to be brave and strong; a time when they were told that showing emotions was a sign of weakness?

You’ve got to be kidding me!

Not only is that one of the most difficult things a man would ever have to do in his life, but how easy do you think it would be for him to trust anyone after what happened? Finding trust again takes real strength.

What I’m really amazed at is the fact that punishment is in place, and there is a support system that residents of this state should be proud of, that is, a system for women and children. Would someone please tell me where the Abused Men’s Advocacy Program is?

If a man doesn’t have insurance or money to pay for assistance, where is he supposed to go? Who is providing a safe harbor for men to turn to? I didn’t see that flier anywhere, and I know I haven’t seen a commercial or advertisement.

Men are not only dealing with childhood abuse, thousands of men are beaten, abused and raped every day. This problem is nationwide. Who do these men turn to and trust?

Why do programs such as AWAP get grants and aid every year, yet there doesn’t seem to be anything available for men? What are we waiting for, someone to kill someone?

Now it has happened. What next?

Maybe if there were a shelter and organization like AWAP in place for men, Scott Poirier’s father might be in prison right now, and Scott would be looking forward to a healthier future.

I don’t think Poirier should spend another day in jail. I think he should have some years of supportive probation to keep him on track, and the best psychological help our tax dollars can pay for.

Catherine Ackley, East Dixfield