Here’s What You Need to Know About Reporting Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse is a devastating and all-too-common experience that can have serious and long-lasting effects on survivors. Reporting sexual abuse, supporting survivors, and advocating for change are important steps we can all take to prevent abuse and create a safe and supportive environment for survivors. In this blog, we will explore the process of reporting sexual abuse, what to expect when reporting, and how to support survivors. We will also discuss the challenges survivors face and the resources available to help them heal and move forward. By raising awareness and supporting survivors, we can create a safer and more just world for all. Why Reporting Sexual Abuse Is So Important Reporting sexual abuse is important for several reasons. First, reporting the abuse helps victims recover and prevent future abuse from the same abuser, which is often a terrifying reality for victims. Second, there can be long-lasting mental and physical health consequences that come from being sexually abused. Reporting that abuse helps victims access the resources they need to heal. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), experiencing child sexual abuse can affect a person’s physical, mental, and behavioral health over a lifetime. It can also result in short-term and long-term consequences like sexually transmitted infections, physical injuries, and mental health concerns. Third, not reporting sexual abuse allows the offender to continue harming others and can contribute to a culture of silence and shame that makes it harder for survivors to come forward and receive support. Who to Report Sexual Abuse To If you or someone you know has been sexually abused, reporting it to the appropriate authorities is important. If you’re unsure what to contact, this section will help. Law enforcement: You can report sexual abuse to the police by calling the direct line of your local police station or visiting the station in person. If you are in immediate danger, you can call 911. If you are on a college campus, you can contact campus-based law enforcement. Child protection services: If the victim is a child or if you suspect that a child is being abused, you should contact your state or local child protection service agency. Healthcare providers are usually mandated reporters of child abuse and neglect and should contact their state or local child protection service agency regarding child abuse reporting requirements. Adult protective services: If the victim is an adult who cannot protect themselves or is in danger, you should report the abuse to adult protective services. These agencies are responsible for investigating and preventing the abuse of vulnerable adults. Sexual abuse reporting hotlines: Sexual abuse reporting hotlines can provide support, information, and referrals to victims of sexual abuse. They can also help you report the abuse to the appropriate authorities. If you are unsure of what to do or how to report sexual abuse, talk to someone you trust. They’ll help you contact the proper authorities to begin the reporting process. Please remember that you are not alone. What to Expect When Reporting Sexual Abuse Reporting sexual abuse can be a difficult and emotional process, but it is a crucial step in preventing further abuse and seeking justice for the victim. Here’s a detailed explanation of what to expect when reporting sexual abuse: Initial contact: When you first contact the appropriate authorities to report sexual abuse, you will be asked to provide basic information about the victim, the nature of the abuse, and the perpetrator, if known. This may involve filling out a form or speaking with a law enforcement officer on the phone. Interview: Depending on the circumstances of the abuse, you or the victim may be asked to provide a more detailed statement about what happened. This may involve a formal interview with a law enforcement officer, during which you will be asked to describe the abuse in detail. It is important to be as honest and detailed as possible during the interview, as this information will be used to investigate the abuse and potentially prosecute the perpetrator. Evidence collection: If physical evidence is available, such as DNA or medical records, it may be collected as part of the investigation. This may involve a medical exam or forensic testing. Investigation: An investigation will be conducted once the report has been filed and any necessary evidence has been collected. This may involve speaking with witnesses, gathering additional evidence, and interviewing the victim and perpetrator. Legal proceedings: If the investigation uncovers evidence of sexual abuse, legal proceedings may be initiated. This may involve filing criminal charges against the perpetrator or pursuing a civil lawsuit. The victim may be called upon to testify in court or provide additional evidence. Sexual abuse lawyers are trained to represent victims in legal proceedings. Throughout this process, it is important to remember that reporting sexual abuse can be a difficult and emotional experience. It is normal to feel scared, anxious, or overwhelmed. Seeking support from a trusted friend, family member, or counselor can help you cope with these emotions and navigate the reporting process. Many organizations and resources exist to support victims of sexual abuse, including abuse reporting hotlines, counseling services, and legal advocacy groups. How to Support Sexual Abuse Survivors Supporting sexual abuse survivors is a crucial way to help them heal and move forward after experiencing trauma. There are multiple ways you can help. Believe them: One of the most important things you can do is to believe the survivor and validate their experience. It can be challenging for survivors to come forward and share their experiences, and listening to them without judgment or disbelief is important. Listen actively: When a survivor shares their experience with you, it is vital to actively listen to what they are saying. Avoid interrupting or dismissing their feelings, and allow them to speak at their own pace. Let them know that you are there to support them and that they can talk to you whenever needed. Offer resources: Many resources are available to survivors of sexual abuse, including
Here’s What You Need to Know About Reporting Sexual Abuse
Reporting sexual abuse, supporting survivors, and advocating for change are important steps we can all take to prevent abuse and create a safe and supportive environment for survivors.
Sexual Abuse Statistics Everyone Should Know
Sexual abuse statistics reveal that this is a significant public health problem in the United States. Experiencing sexual abuse can affect how a person thinks, acts, and feels over a lifetime. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent this type of mistreatment and numerous resources out there for healing. Essential Statistics Sexual abuse is a rampant problem spanning our nation. Understanding its severity can enable people to act and make an ongoing difference. Here are a few unsettling sexual abuse statistics that currently plague our country: An American is sexually abused every 73 seconds. From 2009-2013, Child Protective Services concluded that 63,000 children were abused each year. 66 percent of minor victims are between the ages of 12 and 17, and 33 percent are under the age of 12. 55 percent of sexual assaults happen at or near the victim’s home. Authorities respond to a report of child sexual abuse every nine minutes. Warning Signs in Young Children and Adolescents Considering the gravity of these horrifying numbers, everyone must be able to recognize the warning signs of sexual assault in young children and adolescents. Warning signs in young children: Not speaking as much as normal Overly compliant behavior Exceedingly worrisome Unexplained health problems Avoiding removing clothes, such as to take a bath Regressive behaviors, such as thumb sucking or bedwetting Warning signs in adolescents: Having extensive knowledge about sexual topics Drug and alcohol abuse Self-harm Sexual promiscuity Running away from home Depression and anxiety Keep in mind that this is not a comprehensive list. If anything feels off while interacting with a child, pay attention to that feeling and look into it further. Sexual Abuse Prevention Stop It Now is an organization that aims to prevent sexual exploitation by mobilizing adults to take actions that protect children before they are harmed. They share an endless amount of helpful tips and resources for sexual abuse prevention, including: Create a safety plan for your loved ones to follow if they ever find themselves in an abusive situation. Here are the key aspects of a family safety plan: Educate the entire family on warning signs and what healthy sexual development is. Have clear and open communication. Set well-defined familial boundaries. Involve safe adults that children feel comfortable talking with. Become familiar with local resources. Have the courage to reach out for help. Speak up and have open dialogue when you suspect mistreatment. Learn about what makes a child vulnerable to exploitation and be aware of these factors. Resources If you or a loved one has been a victim of sexual abuse, several beneficial resources can help you on your path to healing. First, you can call the sexual assault hotline at 800-656-4673 any time; they are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Additionally, many websites share excellent resources, including: Public Health RAINN SAMHSA Mental Health Services Locator Stop It Now National Sexual Violence Resource Center Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton Can Help Sexual abuse statistics prove that this problem is severe and ongoing. At Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton, we know how difficult it is to come forward and pursue a case against another individual after sexual assault. Our legal team also understands the importance of having compassionate, personalized attention on your side during this difficult time. Our professional sexual abuse attorneys can help hold those who hurt you accountable for their actions. We have offices in Orem, Provo, Saratoga Springs, and West Jordan, Utah. Reach out for your free case evaluation today.
How Can I Help a Loved One Heal from Nursing Home Abuse?
Finding out that your loved one was mistreated in their care facility is devastating, and they will need to heal from nursing home abuse. Unfortunately, elders are not always able to speak out about their mistreatment, but recognizing the signs and knowing how to aid in their recovery can better help you protect them. Types of Nursing Home Abuse Unfortunately, there are many ways elders can be abused in care facilities. The following are the most common types of nursing home abuse: Physical Abuse – This is when pain or injury is intentionally inflicted on a resident. This can include slapping, shaking, or shoving. Emotional Abuse – This occurs when someone causes mental or psychological pain through verbal or non-verbal actions. This can be done through coercion, harassment, or ignoring the resident. Sexual Abuse – This type of abuse includes any non-consensual sexual activity. Signs of Nursing Home Abuse Nursing home neglect can be hard to detect and sometimes your loved one might be too embarrassed or scared to speak up. It is important to be aware and look for potential signs of maltreatment. Here are a few red flags to watch out for: Bruising or abrasions Open wounds and bedsores Loss of hair Poor hygiene The disappearance of personal items Emotional withdrawal Childish or odd behavior Apathy Healing from Nursing Home Abuse As you help your loved one heal from nursing home abuse, remember that everyone processes and reacts to trauma in their own way. Understand that recovery is not a “one size fits all” plan. Regardless of the type of mistreatment, your loved one must be able to feel that you have their full support. Reassure them that there is no need to feel any shame or embarrassment surrounding the situation. Mental and physical healing is a journey, not a sprint. Having a support system along every step of the way will increase the success of their recovery. Help them take control of their situation by committing to them throughout this process. Moreover, meeting with an abuse recovery counselor is an essential part of healing. Professional counseling will help you and your loved one cope with the mental and physical anguish of abuse. Once they are making progress, they might be ready to find a new facility or home to live in. New living accommodations and a change of scenery can help them regain control and move forward from the incident. If Your Loved One Has Suffered Abuse, Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton Can Help As you strive to help your loved one heal from nursing home abuse, Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton is here to fight for the care they deserve. We understand how critical it is to hold negligent nursing homes accountable for any degree of abuse or neglect their staff has inflicted upon their residents. Our offices are located in Orem, Provo, Saratoga Springs, and West Jordan, Utah. Schedule your free case evaluation today.
My Loved One Doesn’t Want to Report Sexual Abuse: What Should I Do?
If someone you love has been victimized but does not want to report sexual abuse, it can be difficult knowing how to help them. Once they have entrusted you with their story, you might feel hopeless if they decline to speak to authorities about the assault. Fortunately, there are still many ways you can be an asset to them and aid them through the healing process. Why Someone Might Be Apprehensive to Report Sexual Abuse First, it is important to understand the variety of reasons your loved one might not want to report the abuse. They might be concerned that people won’t believe him/her. A victim might have fear about the criminal justice system. Their abuser might be someone they thought they could trust. They might believe that they “deserved it” based on events surrounding the attack, such as drugs or alcohol consumption. Having empathy, patience, and understanding is vital in your role as a supporter. Listen Intently and Believe Them If your loved one is not ready to seek immediate legal action, you can be a supporter by just taking the time to listen to them. Rather than asking a lot of questions, let your loved one know that you believe them and will do your best to support them. Reassure them that they are not alone, and refrain from judging or placing any blame on the victim. Here are a few appropriate responses you can share with your loved one or friend: “Thank you for sharing.” “You are not to blame for what happened to you.” “You didn’t deserve what happened to you.” “I’m sorry this happened to you.” “You are not what was done to you.” “I support you in your healing process.” “I respect you for addressing this.” “I love you.” Encourage Them to Get Help Your loved one might not be ready to report sexual abuse, but they need to understand the other options they have at their disposal. Medical Assistance- Encourage them to go to a hospital or a nearby Planned Parenthood Center for immediate medical attention if the sexual abuse happened recently. Offer to drive them there and sit with them throughout the examination. Therapy– For the long term, encourage them to see a licensed therapist or counselor to discuss what happened. Community Support Groups- Recommend joining a community support group. Your nearest Planned Parenthood Center can connect you with these groups in your area. Sexual Abuse Hotline– We are lucky to have a national sexual assault hotline available at all times. Suggest to your loved one that they reach out to RAINN for confidential and professional support. Don’t Pressure Them Ultimately, you cannot force your loved one to take action regarding their abuse. Your role as a supporter is to be patient and understanding. Provide them with recovery options, but never pressure them into moving faster than they are capable of. If they do decide to report the abuse, you can help by offering to be there with them. Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton is Here For You If you or a loved one is ready to report sexual abuse, Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton is here to help you hold those responsible accountable for their actions. If you decide to pursue action against those who caused you harm, our team will stand by you. It is never too late to get the help you need. We have offices in Provo, Orem, Saratoga Springs, and West Jordan, Utah. Contact us today.
How Can I Help a Loved One Heal From Sexual Abuse?
Sexual abuse is horrific and, unfortunately, all too common in our country. No one deserves this type of abuse. According to RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network), an American is sexually assaulted every 73 seconds, and every 9 minutes, that victim is a child. These are shocking and quite scary statistics. The odds are high that you or someone close to you has been abused. A time may come when a friend or family member trusts you and shares their experience. When this happens, here are some ideas for you to help your loved one heal from their abuse. Actively Listen A person shows immense strength and courage when they make the decision to share their abuse experience. Doubts and fears flood the person, and they ask themselves questions like: “How will they react?”, “Will they think of me differently?”, and “Will they believe me?”. If someone trusts you enough to open up about their trauma, actively listen to them. Make sure there is nothing fighting for your attention and focus solely on them. Stay engaged the entire time and let them tell the story without interruption. Meet their vulnerability with empathy and kindness. Wendy Maltz, author and sex and relationship therapist, suggests this list of possible appropriate responses: “Thank you for sharing.” “You are not to blame for what happened to you.” “You didn’t deserve what happened to you.” “I’m sorry this happened to you.” “You are not what was done to you.” “That was abuse, not healthy sexuality.” “I support you in your healing process.” “I respect you for addressing this.” “I love you.” Do Not Doubt People respond to trauma differently, and they may retell the story in multiple ways. Some may try to lighten the mood by laughing, some may cry, and some may tell the story like it happened to someone else. No matter how the story is told, believe them. Acknowledge them and tell your loved one you believe them. If doubt is expressed, it could hinder their desire to seek the professional help they need. Keep Their Trust When a loved one opens up and shares their experience of sexual abuse, they have placed a lot of trust in you. It is vital that you keep their trust. That experience is not yours to share; it is theirs. Do not break their trust by telling their story to someone else unless they give you explicit instructions to do so. Breaking their trust can be just as detrimental as doubting their story. Your loved one may avoid seeking the help they need to get through this traumatic experience if they feel betrayed. Educate Yourself Do your research in understanding abuse and how it affects others. RAINN and the CDC offer fantastic resources on the subject. Read through these resources, understand them, and be prepared if someone chooses to open up to you. Understand the proper ways to respond and the subsequent steps to help your loved one heal from this terrible abuse. Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton is Here for You At Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton, we know how difficult it is to come forward and pursue a case against another individual after sexual abuse. Our legal team also understands the importance of having compassionate, personalized attention on your side during this difficult time. We can help hold those who hurt you accountable for their actions. We have offices in West Jordan and Utah County, Utah. Contact us today.
What Does A Sexual Abuse Lawyer Do?
Sexual abuse is a traumatic and devastating event that no person should have to endure. However, an experienced sexual abuse attorney can help you begin to move forward with your life by holding your abuser accountable.
Negligent Security and Sexual Assault
Crimes like sexual assault occur daily in the United States. Although a crime can take place anywhere or at any time, there are certain conditions that make crimes more likely. A poorly lit and monitored property is one example. If negligent security encourages or allows for sexual assault, victims in the Salt Lake City, UT area may wish to file a premises liability lawsuit. Premises liability makes property owners responsible for injuries or damages that occur on their property if they did not take measures to create a safe environment for invited guests. The experienced attorneys at Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton can help sexual assault victims file a premises liability lawsuit so that they can be compensated for the full extent of their losses. Examples of Negligent Security Property owners are allowed to make their own decisions regarding security for their land or buildings. Although there are no rules that stipulate what type of security should be in place, it must be adequate enough to discourage accidents, injuries, and crime. The location of the property and the crime rates in the area should also be considered when securing a property. If a person is sexually assaulted on a property, evidence of negligent security may include: Insufficient lighting for outside structures or within parking lots A lack of fencing or entry gates Broken locks Lack of security system or cameras (or malfunctioning security devices) Insufficient security staffing or improper training of security staff Grounds for Premises Liability Property owners cannot be held accountable for every criminal act that occurs. However, a premises liability lawsuit can be filed by sexual assault victims if certain factors are met: The sexual assault victim is injured or suffers other damages or losses as a result of the crime There is ample evidence to show that the sexual assault was linked to negligent security The property owner had reason to anticipate the crime and failed to put appropriate security measures in place Damages in Premises Liability Cases As with any other lawsuit that is filed in civil court, damages in a premises liability case will be unique in each situation. Our attorneys will seek appropriate compensation based on each client’s losses. Potential damages in cases of sexual assault linked to negligent security include: Medical expenses (past and future) Lost wages or a loss of wage-earning potential Pain and suffering Emotional distress Diminished quality of life In certain cases, punitive damages may also be rewarded in a premises liability lawsuit. Our attorneys will seek punitive damages in cases of blatant negligence. Punitive damages serve as a punishment to liable parties and are meant to discourage similar situations in the future. Contact Us If you are a victim of sexual assault and you believe that the crime was the result of negligent security, you may want to file a premises liability lawsuit. Contact the attorneys at Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton to discuss the details of your case. You can reach us by calling (801) 370-0505.