NEW ALEXANDRIA, Pa. (AP) — The family of a western Pennsylvania girl who was killed by a former boyfriend is hoping state lawmakers will pass legislation mandating dating violence education in schools.
Demi Cuccia (koo-SHA) was killed in August 2007. Her family and several state lawmakers are attending a rally in Harrisburg on Tuesday to call attention to a bill named after her. Demi’s Bill would require Pennsylvania public schools to teach kids about dating violence.
Demi’s father, Gary Cuccia, says he wishes his daughter had known the signs of a relationship that could turn violent. They can include extreme jealousy, controlling behavior, and isolating someone from friends or family.
If approved, the state would join Rhode Island, Nebraska, Washington, Virginia and Ohio, which have already passed laws addressing dating violence education.
