The center points out that the last five months have been particularly horrific in Bergen County.
- Annette Torres was killed by her partner, Mark Morris, who then took his own life, in Bergenfield last Saturday. Their 11-year-old son found them dead the next morning in their home.
- Michael Stasko of Edgewater apparently shot his wife, Melissa, their 8-year-old daughter, Mellie, and himself; they were found dead, on Christmas Day.
- On January 31, 2016, Luisa Pleger of North Arlington was killed. Her husband, Eric Pleger, was charged with her murder.
"We, as a community, must heed higher standards in intervening for families where domestic violence exists. We all must take responsibility for helping our neighbors trapped in abusive, potentially lethal, relationships,"said Julye Myner, Center for Hope and Safety Executive Director.
The 24-hour hotline of Center for Hope and Safety is 201-944-9600. This is a confidential hotline if someone just needs to talk or if referrals are needed.
Center for Hope and Safety also provides community education and outreach material.
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