John Cantin

My daughter, Melissa, was murdered on October 22, 2009. I was also present that day and was shot, but I survived. After such a horrific tragedy, the Coalition gave me a reason to keep living. That purpose was to help support the passing of a strangulation bill they were working to enact. A week before her murder, Melissa had survived a strangulation attempt by her husband. With the support of my family and friends, we worked tirelessly and were successful in getting the strangulation provision passed into law. Prior to this legislation, strangulation was only a misdemeanor, and offenders could be released on bail within hours. I know firsthand how effective this law has been. As a member of the Victims’ Compensation Board, I witnessed many strangulation offenders being held accountable. I firmly believe that if this law had been passed sooner, my daughter Melissa would still be alive today. Victims of domestic violence need someone to listen, to believe them, and to guide them through their trauma. The Coalition does this vital work every single day. I am thankful for the NH Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault.