Ada officer recognized for domestic violence campaign

Ardmore police Capt. Jason Potter was recognized for his work in combating domestic violence. (KTEN)

ADA, Okla. -- October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. On Wednesday, a veteran Ada police officer was recognized for his efforts against domestic violence.

"I would say on average we probably run two to three domestic calls per day," said Capt. Jason Potter, who's been on the force for more than two decades.

Since becoming a detective, Potter has made domestic violence one of his main priorities, trying to educate the community as much as possible.

"This, along with DUIs, we're not going to be able to arrest our way out of this problem," he said. "We're going to have to get people involved, get them educated to let them know that there is definitely an issue going on in our community."

For his efforts, Potter received the Law Enforcement Award for Excellence in Action Against Domestic Violence from Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter.

But Potter says his work is only just beginning.

"We're looking at two, three additional trainings coming up, so we're in the process of trying to make it a better place for our victims and survivors," he said.

Every month, Capt. Potter is involved in the community crisis team meeting as well. That's something team members like Susan Youngblood say makes all the difference.

"It's great to be able to come together and pool our resources," she said. "That way everyone knows what's available and the help that's out there for victims."

If you would like to be involved, the annual candlelight vigil will be held Friday at First United Methodist Church, or just give the Ada Police Department a call.

"If anybody is interested in us coming and visiting with them about the issue or what we can to to curb the issue, call us and we'll get that scheduled," Potter said.