Justice Stalled for Victims of Child Sexual Abuse: Report
A white paper funded by the National Institute of Justice found that out of 500 child sexual abuse cases analyzed that involved perpetrators 16 and older, 50 percent stalled at the investigation stage, fewer than 25 percent were prosecuted, and only 14 percent resulted in a determination of guilt.
Landwebs
A recently published white paper based on a study funded by the National Institute of Justice found that out of 500 child sexual abuse cases analyzed that involved perpetrators 16 and older, 50 percent stalled at the investigation stage, fewer than 25 percent were prosecuted, and only 14 percent resulted in a determination of guilt, reports Newswise.
Cases that did not move forward were influenced by factors including age of the perpetrator, victim characteristics, support from the primary caregiver, and disclosure issues.
“Addressing the challenges documented by our research and finding and evaluating solutions will require the continued work of the justice system and the community,” said Dr. Linda M. Williams, a criminologist and co-author of the white paper, who has also studied criminal justice system attrition in cases of sexual assaults perpetrated against adult victims.
“Sustainable change also will require education and a shift in beliefs and social norms so that the occurrence of CSA [Child Sexual Abuse] is recognized, and community members are able to participate in protection and prevention efforts.”
