Dear Editor,

This is a public letter of apology to Officer Elizabeth Johnson, Syracuse Police Department.

Dear Officer Johnson,

I am writing this letter with a heavy heart to express my sincerest apologies for my actions during the incident on Sept. 16, 2024, where I committed an act of battery against you. I deeply regret my behavior and the pain, harm and disrespect I caused you in the line of duty.

There is no justification for my actions. I understand that your role as an officer is to protect and serve the community, and my behavior not only disrespected you but also undermined the principles of respect and civility that I should uphold as a member of society. For this, I am profoundly sorry.

I take full responsibility for my actions and am committed to making amends for the harm I caused. Since the incident, I have been reflecting on my behavior and its consequences. I am actively taking steps to ensure this never happens again, including taking anger management classes and maintaining sobriety.

I deeply admire the courage and dedication it takes to serve as a law enforcement officer, and I am ashamed that my actions disrespected you and your role. I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me, though I understand forgiveness must be earned through accountability and positive actions moving forward.

Please let me know if there is any way I can take further responsibility for my actions or work toward making things right. Once again, I am profoundly sorry, and I assure you that I am committed to being a better person.

Sincerely,
Kathleen Rollins