Franklin Co. prosecutor raises awareness of sexual abuse

(BROOKVILLE, Ind.) – The Franklin County Prosecutor is raising awareness about sexual violence during Sexual Assault Awareness Month in April.

This month provides an opportunity to celebrate the resilience of sexual assault survivors and the communities that have worked for change. 

But prosecutors and advocates agree there’s still immense work to do, especially here at home in Indiana. 

In fact, according to studies 60% of Hoosier women have been victims of sexual violence in their lifetime. 

Additionally, 63% of sexual assaults are not reported to the police. 

Prosecutor Chris Huerkamp explains that sexual assault is any form of unwanted sexual contact. This can include (but is not limited to): 

• Rape or sexual assault of adults or children

• Incest

• Sexual assault/non-consensual sex committed by a person’s spouse or partner

• Fondling

• Sexual harassment

• Sexual exploitation

• Sexual trafficking, or forcing someone to perform sex acts with others 

• Exposure of genitals or naked body to other(s) without consent

• Watching someone engage in private sexual acts without their knowledge or permission

• Non-consensual sharing of intimate image(s)

“These types of cases are deeply personal, can be exceptionally challenging, and unfortunately there’s no one solution to solve this problem. But there are ways we can educate our communities about prevention and appropriate response to sexual violence. The importance of teaching our children how and when to report their concerns to safe adults cannot be emphasized enough,” said Prosecutor Huerkamp. “We also must continue to advocate and support victims and survivors of sexual violence at every opportunity.” 

Prosecutor Huerkamp further warned that in the age of artificial intelligence (A.I.), constant cell phone use, and the expansion of technology, sexual predators have taken on a multi-layered approach to their abuse. This creates a very disturbing situation for victims, because to them the abuser can be viewed in a position of complete control. 

Huerkamp added, “Our office depends on the courage of community members, friends, family, and survivors to report abuse to law enforcement when it occurs. This is the only way we can hold abusers accountable for their crimes, and take action to stop or prevent sexual violence in the future.”

To immediately report sexual abuse, call 911 or your local police department.