In reference to the article on impending cuts in state funding for Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services [DVSAS], a closer look at this group should be taken.

The organization’s website explains that “validation of the victim’s experience is emphasized: empowerment is our goal.”

DVSAS operates on the principle that the client they represent, the accuser, is, without question, the victim. There is no interest in facts that might contradict the alleged victim’s report. Even further, DVSAS uses their considerable financial and political power in this county to immediately mount a vigilante campaign against the accused.

The DVSAS website states that “one in three women will be sexually assaulted in their lifetimes.” This is a sobering figure and justifies a need for DVSAS services and an appeal for funds. Current rape statistics, however, are so contradictory that many professionals, including leading feminist legal scholars, acknowledge the potential unreliability. The “one in three” numbers have largely been discredited. Typical is this quote:

Former Colorado prosecutor Craig Silverman once stated “During my time as a prosecutor who made case filing decisions, I was amazed to see all the false rape allegations that were made … Any honest veteran sex assault investigator will tell you that rape is one of the most falsely reported crimes that there is […] A command officer in the Denver Police sex assaults unit recently told me he placed the false rape numbers at approximately 45 percent.”

Recognizing the fact that false accusations have and will be made, and that false accusation is a crime with horrific consequences, advocacy groups have a responsibility to offer their services with basic discretion. In contrast, DVSAS trusts all accusers to be of equal credibility.

There was a time when women’s voices were not adequately represented in sexual assault and domestic violence situations. Much has changed, including protective legislation, to encourage a more equitable enforcement of the law. However, promoting unconfirmed accusations, providing law enforcement with predetermined conclusions, and the intolerant use of political force is not equitable justice. In fact, this is disrespect for the legitimate victims of crime.

Elise Anderson

Orcas Island