Rape and sexual assault are horrific crimes. The immediate aftermath can be confusing and overwhelming. Survivors face questions from police and other authorities, along with intrusive medical examinations to gather evidence. Movies and media outlets often refer to a sexual assault forensic exam (SAFE) as a “rape kit.” These exams are a crucial tool in… Read More
Louisiana Supreme Court Upholds Lookback Window Giving Child Sex Abuse Survivors a Second Chance at Justice
Today, June 12, 2024, the Louisiana Supreme Court issued a ruling upholding the constitutionality of the Louisiana Lookback Window, a widely praised law originally passed unanimously by the legislature in 2021. The law revived all previously expired childhood sexual abuse claims in Louisiana, thereby giving countless childhood sexual abuse survivors a second chance at justice… Read More
What Happens With a Rape Kit and How Is Evidence Collected
Originally written in 2020, this informative blog details what to expect during a sexual assault forensic exam (SAFE exam) and a helpful overview of evidence collection. Rape and sexual assault are some of the most horrific crimes imaginable. The immediate aftermath of an attack can be confusing. There are questions from police – and family… Read More
Louisiana Supreme Court Grants Request to Revisit Controversial Ruling Striking Down Child Sex Abuse Survivors’ Second Chance at Justice
UPDATE (6/16/24): The Louisiana Supreme Court and the state legislature have reopened the courthouse doors through June 2027 for adult Louisianans subjected to childhood sexual assault. During that “lookback window,” survivors may bring claims and seek justice from their abusers. Today, May 10, 2024, the Louisiana Supreme Court granted pending requests to reopen and revisit… Read More
Louisiana Third Circuit Court of Appeal Upholds Constitutionality of “Lookback Law”
UPDATE (6/16/24): The Louisiana Supreme Court and the state legislature have reopened the courthouse doors through June 2027 for adult Louisianans subjected to childhood sexual assault. During that “lookback window,” survivors may bring claims and seek justice from their abusers. The Louisiana Third Circuit Court of Appeal recently issued a ruling upholding the constitutionality… Read More
Sexual Abuse by a Counselor or Therapist
A close trusting relationship is an essential part of successful therapy. Therapists are skilled in cultivating the trust of their patients and making them feel safe to share their deepest doubts, fears, and insecurities. When this trust is used properly, it can be powerful tool in helping the patient achieve therapeutic success. Unfortunately, a small… Read More
Former Sheriff Jack Strain Faces Civil Suits from Survivors of Sexual Abuse Seeking Justice
Former sheriff Jack Strain is facing civil suits filed by survivors of sexual abuse, who are seeking justice for the trauma they endured. The suits accuse Strain of abusing his position of power to engage in sexual acts with inmates and employees of the jail he oversaw. The survivors allege that Strain’s behavior was not… Read More
What To Do If Your Child Has Been Sexually Assaulted at School
Sexual abuse or sexual assault can happen to anyone, regardless of gender, age, race, or socioeconomic status. When the victim is a child, however, it can be especially difficult to know how to respond. As more and more children report being sexually abused or assaulted in grade school and high school, it’s vital that parents… Read More
Signs Your Child is Being Groomed by a Sexual Predator
Child sexual abuse is devastating for its victims and their families. Survivors of childhood sexual abuse have been found to be approximately 10 times more likely to attempt suicide. It is estimated that up to 99% of all cases of child sexual abuse involve some elements of what is known as “sexual grooming.” Sexual grooming… Read More
Have You Been Sexually Assaulted?
There are no “wrong” ways to respond to a sexual assault or rape. Each individual will go through their own process of psychological recovery. Whether you report a sexual assault or rape is your decision alone. The purpose of this article is to let you know some recommended things you can do to preserve your… Read More
