A heartfelt thanks to the Cayuga County District Attorney's Office for all their time and dedication in helping me over the past year in obtaining an arrest, punishment and admission on the part of my abuser.

I cannot express enough gratitude and respect to former Assistant District Attorney Samuel Finnessey for taking on my case; Detective Mead for all his time in preparation for an arrest; Carrie for her softspoken support throughout this stressful time, and ADA Heather DeStefano for going forward and following through the case.

There is hope out there for victims of domestic violence. Stay diligent in your efforts to make abusers accountable for their actions. If you are not satisfied with your local police then go to the state attorney general with your concerns.

It took me a year but the outcome was well worth the time and effort.

The assistant district attorney and her staff gave me back my strength and dignity, but more importantly my “comfort zone” where I now feel safe.

Thank you all from the bottom of my soul.

Theresa Simkulet (Gallaro)

Auburn