Betrayal of Trust
If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, Lisa recommends documenting the abuse. "If somebody's hurting you or raping you, you need to keep a journal and keep it in a safe place," she says.
Also, if someone rapes you—whether it's your husband or boyfriend—Lisa says you should go to the hospital within 48 hours and request a rape kit. "There are trained nurses, sexual assault nurse examiners. They know how to do evidence collection," she says. "[If you go to trial,] you need to have the documentation from the hospital."
Even if the victim is not ready to press charges, Lisa suggests they fill out a police report and find a safe place to go.
"Every time, a perpetrator is going to say, 'She wanted it.' They use a consent defense, and they need to show you did not consent," she says. "You have a right to say no."
Find out how to create an escape plan.
To find help in your area, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE.
How to help someone you suspect is being abused
Also, if someone rapes you—whether it's your husband or boyfriend—Lisa says you should go to the hospital within 48 hours and request a rape kit. "There are trained nurses, sexual assault nurse examiners. They know how to do evidence collection," she says. "[If you go to trial,] you need to have the documentation from the hospital."
Even if the victim is not ready to press charges, Lisa suggests they fill out a police report and find a safe place to go.
"Every time, a perpetrator is going to say, 'She wanted it.' They use a consent defense, and they need to show you did not consent," she says. "You have a right to say no."
Find out how to create an escape plan.
To find help in your area, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE.
How to help someone you suspect is being abused
Published 11/07/2007