The Sequoyah County Commissioners have proclaimed February to be Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month.

Cindy Smith, investigator for the Sequoyah County Sheriff ’s Office, told the commissioners that violence begins in the teen years with jealousy and control issues, and that opportunities to educate and for support should not be delayed until adulthood.

“We encourage kids of dating age and parents to recognize the alarming signs of teen violence and what it takes to build healthy relationships. We need to get the education out there, and we thank the commissioners for signing the proclamation,” Smith said.