The Dire Need for Better Police Training

A Survivor’s Call for Change

As I sit down to write this, I’m reminded of the long and arduous journey that brought me here. It’s been years since I first found myself thrust into a nightmare I never could have imagined – a survivor of violent sexual assault, fighting not only my own trauma but a system that seemed ill-equipped to help me.

In 2013, I was sexually assaulted by a federal agent. What followed was a harrowing experience that opened my eyes to the critical gaps in how law enforcement handles cases like mine. Through my ordeal, I’ve come to understand the urgent need for improved police training in dealing with survivors of sexual assault.

One of the most challenging aspects of my journey was the process of reporting and interacting with law enforcement. I remember vividly the pattern I developed – approaching officers, evaluating them at face value, desperately trying to determine if they would be the ones to finally help me. This shouldn’t be the reality for any survivor. We need a system where every officer is trained to provide a safe, approachable environment for reporting.

The importance of appropriate settings for interviews became painfully clear to me when a detective attempted to interview me over the phone while I was in a public park. The lack of privacy and sensitivity in that moment was jarring. It’s crucial that officers understand the need for private, comfortable spaces when speaking with survivors. We’re already vulnerable; the last thing we need is to feel exposed or unsafe during the reporting process.

My experience also highlighted the terrifying reality of ongoing threats and stalking. I’ll never forget the fear that gripped me as I was followed by two vehicles for 13 miles, one of which included my offender. Police must be trained to recognize these signs of ongoing threat and take immediate action to ensure survivor safety.

The complexity of my case, involving an offender who claimed jurisdiction across the entire United States and had reporting victims in multiple geographies, underscored the need for better cross-jurisdictional coordination. I found myself explaining my situation to multiple officers in different states, most often without success. This lack of consistency and communication between agencies only added to my frustration and fear.

Perhaps one of the most disheartening aspects of my journey was the struggle to obtain a police report or victim advocacy services. These are basic rights for any survivor, not hurdles to overcome. It’s clear that officers need comprehensive training on connecting survivors with resources and understanding the crucial role of victim advocacy services.

Through all of this, I’ve come to realize the paramount importance of a “Start by Believing” approach. The impact of being believed from the outset cannot be overstated. It sets the tone for the entire process and can make the difference between a survivor pursuing justice or retreating into silence.

My case also involved complex power dynamics, with my offender being a federal agent. This experience highlighted the need for specialized training in handling cases where the perpetrator holds a position of authority. The intimidation I faced was not just from my offender, but from a system that seemed more interested in protecting him than supporting me. When officers were assigned to help in city jurisdictions, the offender manipulated processes and interrogations by leaning on his advanced training.

As I reflect on my journey, I’m filled with a mix of emotions – anger at the injustices I’ve faced, sadness for the trauma I’ve endured, but also hope for the future. My experiences have fueled my determination to advocate for change. I’m calling for comprehensive, trauma-informed training for all law enforcement officers. This training must cover understanding trauma responses, creating safe reporting environments, improving evidence collection, and recognizing the complexities of sexual assault cases, particularly those involving empowered offenders.

We need a cultural shift within law enforcement – one that prioritizes believing and supporting survivors. This means implementing policies that ensure consistent support throughout the investigation and legal process, not just during the initial report. It means addressing systemic biases and providing ongoing education to keep up with best practices.

To other survivors, I want you to know that your voices matter. Your experiences, as painful as they are, can be the catalyst for change. To law enforcement agencies, I implore you to listen to our stories and use them to inform and improve your training programs. And to everyone reading this, I ask for your support in pushing for these crucial reforms.

The path to justice for survivors of sexual assault is often long and difficult, but it’s a path we shouldn’t have to walk alone. With improved police training and a system that truly supports survivors, we can create a world where justice is not just a hope, but a reality. This is my story, my call to action, and my unwavering commitment to change. Together, we can and must do better.