There are some crimes which just aren’t forgivable, there are some things which people do which require retribution and sadly for those who deserve justice for what they’ve had to suffer through, fear of reprisal can prevent action. This is true of domestic violence and it’s especially true of sexual assault and rape. What’s most frightening is that 80% of rapes are perpetrated by a relative or acquaintance.
Legally sexual assault is treated very seriously and will generally lead the accused into prison-time if they’re found guilty. Again, the issue here isn’t the lack of severity of punishment it’s that victims are afraid to come forward and name names and why wouldn’t they be? They’ll have been through something which they won’t want to remember, never mind talk about and the fear of being hurt for speaking out will be a hugely powerful thing.
Victims of sexual assault should always go to A&E at the hospital as soon as they can. Within 24 hours if at all possible. No one will make them say anything but it’s highly urged that they speak out as the culprits are likely to have assaulted others in similar ways and will probably continue to do so, it’s important to get them off the streets. Forensic evidence can be collected from those who come in quickly after an assault, this is imperative for keeping people like this off the street and ensuring they don’t hurt anyone else ever again.
In cases where you know someone who’s been sexually assaulted but is too scared to seek help, it’s important that you act as their advocate and seek that help for them. It might be scary but their wellbeing and very life could be at stake, you might have to let them be angry at you for a while to save their lives!
