Three Cops Charged in Sodomy Case

Three New York police officers turned themselves in after being accused of sodomizing a man. To see video on this story:
http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/index.php?cl=11020651

Update on Tony Alamo

There is a post from October 2008 regarding Tony Alamo. He is the founder of the Tony Alamo Christian Ministries, which is widely considered to be a cult. He was arrested in September and is currently facing ten child abuse charges in the state of Arkansas. A total of thirty-two children have been seized from his ministries. He will be facing trial in February 2009.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20081203/ap_on_re_us/evangelist_child_abuse

Man Answers Craigslist Ad and Used Child for Porn

Twenty-three year old Aaron Jay Lemmon answered an ad on Craigslist for a babysitter. He then used the child he was "babysitting" to make a pornographic video. This happened in Minnesota, but it can happen anywhere. Sexual predators are using the internet to prey on others, and this site is just another way for them to contact people and gain access to them. Craigslist is doing its part by joining a pact with forty other states to try and prevent people from using the site for illegal activities, but each one of us needs to be aware and protect ourselves as best we can. Social networking sites and places like Craigslist are great resources, but can also be dangerous places for all people.
http://www.startribune.com/local/35547669.html?page=2&c=y#

Arrest Made In Brianna Denison Case!

In January of this year, Brianna Denison was abducted. Her body was found a month later and it was reported that she had been raped and strangled. Brianna had been abducted while she was sleeping on a friends couch in the middle of the night. Her story received tons of coverage on television, including America's Most Wanted and numerous magazines. More than one candlelight vigil was held in her memory. Police believed her attacker was also responsible for other assaults in the same area. The students and local women became increasingly afraid and cautious during this time. Now, finally, James Michael Biela has been arrested. DNA evidence is said to have linked him to the crime. That evidence may also link him to other assaults and is still under investigation. Brianna Denison's family has been waiting patiently for this day, now let's hope some justice is served. To read more on this story: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/27925701/from/ET/

To read the official blog for the Denison family: http://bringbriback.blogspot.com/

Amber Alerts Still Need Work

Amber Hagerman was 9 years old when she was abducted and murdered in 1996. The Amber Alert is named for this little girl. Although, Amber Alerts are credited with providing fast information to the public to help find children and sometimes even adults, each state is different when it comes to issuing the alerts and keeping track of what the outcomes are. There is a problem with the system if each state does things there own way. Some do not even have someone to oversee the operation. There is even a federal law that requires all states to be uniform in their handling of Amber Alerts. Unfortunately, this is not happening.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/27821124/from/ET/

Beware on Halloween...

Halloween is supposed to be a day for the neighborhood kids to dress up and go to all the houses to collect candy. This is a little scary nowdays. A woman recently wrote into the paper asking if it was okay for her to feel uncomfortable that an older man photographed her two young daughters as they approached his door on Halloween. Maybe there isn't a law against it, or the kids had amazing costumes, but wouldn't you ask permission? I never had my photo taken by an adult when I was a child trick or treating. It does sound a little awkward. Are parents supposed to research the neighborhood with their access to the Megan's Law website? In some states, convicted sex offenders are not allowed to hand out candy to children. Unfortunatley, that is not the case in California. In Atascadero, a sex offender was asked to take down his Halloween display. Having an elaborate display would definatley attract children to his home on Halloween night and residents did not feel comfortable with this. Maryland seems to have a nice plan by asking registered sex offenders to display a sign stating that their is no candy at that paticular residence. Just be aware of your surroundings, just like any other day.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/27314062/from/ET/

Sex Offenders Will Have to Wear GPS

In a New York county, high risk sex offenders will have to wear a GPS ankle bracelet to let police officials know their whereabouts twenty-four hours a day. Programs like this throughout the country have shown that it cuts the amount of repeat sex offenders in half.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/27345711/from/ET/

Man Who Worked for Civil Rights Gets 15 Years

Reverand James L. Bevel was convicted of incest for having sex with his own daughter, who was a teenagaer at the time. Bevel was given fifteen years, which was the maximum. This man has four other daughters who have made similar allegations against him. He believed that parents should be the ones to expose their children to sexual situations. His daughters had hoped for an apology from him, but he did not comply. He started molesting his daughter at the age of six and it eventually led to rape. This is a man who was involved with multiple civil rights organizations and worked with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/27201831/from/ET/

Rhode Island Schools To Teach About Dating Violence

The Lindsay Ann Burke Act is a new law in Rhode Island that will require all public middle and high schools to teach students about dating violence. Lindsay Burke was killed by an abusive boyfriend at the age of twenty-three. Her parents, Ann and Chris Burke headed the initiative, and hope it will help others before it is too late. They feel that if Lindsay had known more about dating violence, she could've recognized the dangers sooner and had a better idea of how to get away from her boyfriend. She had repeatedly left him, but maintained contact. Texas already mandates awareness education and the National Association of Attorneys General are encouraging the education in other states. This kind of education could offer so much empowerment and support for young people. For possible victims and even assailants, this could teach them the boundaries that are so often crossed, before it becomes deadly.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/27035312/from/ET/

Arkansas Evangelist Arrested in Arizona

Tony Alamo, also known as Bernie Hoffman was arrested in Arizona on charges that he took children across state lines to engage in sexual activity. Officials searched Alamo's compund looking for evidence that children have been molested of filmed engaging in sexual activity. This is a man who believes that as soon as a girl enters puberty, she can give consent to marry. Six young girls were taken from the compound, but no details have been released. They were between the ages of ten and seventeen. Tony Alamo was charged under the Mann Act which is normally used with interstate prostitution cases.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/evangelist_child_porn

Sex Offender Who Posed as Seventh Grader to Serve 70 Years

Neil Havens Roderick II is a actually a thirty year old man. He is also a convicted sex offender. For two years, he posed as a twelve year old boy and attended multiple schools in the state of Arizona. In 2007, school officials became suspicious and a search of Rodericks home turned up child pornography. He, along with three other men posed as a family! Roderick was charged with 28 counts, but only had to plead guilty to a handfull of them. Arizona attorneys say he will serve seventy years and will not be eligible for parole.

http://www.cnn.com/2008/CRIME/09/11/sex.offender.student.ap/index.html#cnnSTCText

Update in Sunnyvale

In July 2008, there was a blog posting here referring to Sunnyvale, Texas and the sexual assaults occuring at a middle school there. Six students now face felony charges. One fifteen year old who is believed to be the the leader of the group is facing five felony charges which include aggravated assault. Most of the accused students have switched schools or were expelled. The victims of these horrendous crimes still deserve justice, and this story still deserves the attention. There needs to be more pressure on the officials in Sunnyvale to make sure justice is served. The entire community should expect and receive this.
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/dn/latestnews/stories/091208dnmetsunnyvaleassaults.19b3644.html

Aaron Mohanlal Goes to Jail!

Aaron Mohanlal, the convicted sex offender who had yet to serve any of his 43 year prison sentence, finally went to jail His bond was revoked after it was discovered that no liens were placed on the properties used for collateral, and they weren't worth the amount originally reported anyway. He spent a full year as a free man, and now the victim and his family can say there is some justice. In an August 5th blog, the story is detailed.

Lady Who Cloned Dead Dog is Sex Slave Kidnapper

Maybe some of you heard about the woman who had her pitbull cloned. What we didn't know was that Joyce Bernann was actually Joyce McKinney. McKinney originally denied it, but finally admitted who she really was. In England, in 1977, she kidnapped a Mormon missionary, tied him to a bed and forced sexual intercourse with him. She claims to be a different person these days, but has had her fair share of issues. Why would you do something like clone your dog, knowing the kind of attention you're going to receive if you aren't willing to face the charges that should be brought against you? In 1977, she denied the sexual assault, but fled back to the United States after she was let out on bail. Either way, for the young man she did this to, maybe it will provide some closure to a horrible ordeal.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1043404/Dog-cloner-admits-Yes-Im-sex-slave-kidnapper-Joyce-McKinney.html?ITO=1490

440 Years for Police Officer Convicted of 4 Rapes

In Bloomington, Illinois, Jeff Pelo, a former police sergeant was sentenced to 440 years in prison. Pelo was convicted on 35 counts, including sexual assault. He was convicted in June and sentenced earlier this month. His motion for a new trial was denied. Pelo had multiple victims, some of which were present for his sentencing. This is a man who abused his power and position as a police officer. How you can vow to uphold the law and set an example in society and then violate the very people you are supposed to protect is unspeakable. To read more on Jeff Pelo:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/26164882/from/ET/

Convicted Child Molester Has Yet to Serve Any of 43 Year Prison Term

Aaron Mohanlal was a teacher in South Florida when he forced a young boy to have sex with him repeatedly over a two year period. He was convicted on 13 counts, sentenced to a 43 years prison term and has yet to serve a day in jail. Mohanlal was given a rare bond that allows him to remain free while his case is tried on appeal. "Everyone has a right to a first appeal" is the only thing Mohanlal's attorney will say in regards to the case. What about the victims right to justice? Or even the communitys? Who wants a convicted sex offender living and working in their neighborhood? A teacher is supposed to be an adult that is trusted by everyone, especially young people. He has proved that he is dangerous and someone to be wary of. Other students at the school even testified in the case against him. He wears a GPS monitoring system but was not even ordered to stay away from children. How is man who preys on children given so much freedom? To read more on this story:
http://www.cnn.com/2008/CRIME/07/23/sex.offender.teacher/index.html

Interview with Jennifer Baumgardner

Here is a condensed version of Abby Panozzo's interview with Jennifer Baumgardner. Jennifer Baumgardner's "I was Raped" campaign personalizes rape and discusses how it is a problem that affects all of us. It is an issue that not only affects the victim, but our entire community. It has this tremendous impact, and everyone has a responsibility to help "shatter the silence around sexual violence".
How can victims/survivors gain and exercise their agency, if they are not provided with opportunities to participate in documentaries or local campaigns? JB:"We have many opportunities to discuss rape-to confront it, believe it exists, signal that we are safe people to talk to, question a perpetrator-and I hope projects like this one suggest to people that they can begin to interrupt rape culture themselves..." Could you elaborate on the role this project could potentially have for sexual violence prevention and intervention organiztions, such as PAVE? JB:"I think that any time media attention or popular attention is drawn toward the issue of rape and sexual violence by anyone, particularly someone with a commitment and understanding of feminism, it can bring added energy, money, and attention to the important work that organizations like PAVE and RAINN are doing...the goal of the project is to personalize rape...make it about personal stories...it encourages people to come out about their rape and sexaul assault experiences and , I hope get support from or lend support to places like PAVE."

Repeat Sex Offender Charged with Kidnapping of Brooke Bennett

Michael Jacques is a twice convicted sex offender with a history going back over 30 years. His niece, Brooke Bennett went missing June 25 and her body was found a week later. He is now being charged with the 12 year old girls disappearance. He'd been released for his previous crimes and now Brooke Bennett is dead. On June 29 he was charged with sexual assault in yet another unrelated case. Why is it that he is even able to commit these crimes? These incidents could have been PREVENTED all together! This is a classic example of a repeat sex offender continuing their vicious cycle of assault. Our justice system needs to recognize that these individuals are likely to re-offend. We need to keep people like Michael Jacques behind bars. There needs to be stiffer penalties and closer monitoring of those that are able to be released from jail or prison. Brooke Bennett is a girl who should'nt have had to face this monster.
http://www.rutlandherald.com/ - newspaper in VT
> - scroll down past the
> readers poll, under special features and you will
> find the section on Brooke

Frustration in Sunnyvale

PAVE's Survivor Justice Campaign has been involved in a sexual assault case in Sunnyvale, Texas. Five teens at Sunnyvale Middle School are facing charges of indecency and aggravated sexual assault that took place around the school and during a gym class in the boys locker room. After an adult walked in on one of the assaults, minor punishment was given and the incident was pushed aside. Rumors of the incident, and others like it began to raise concern and bring attention to what was happening at the school. When parents and other members of the community spoke with school official and the police, the incidents were brushed off as bullying. They were not willing to open an investigation. The residents of Sunnyvale did not feel that enough was being done. They felt that the principal Diana Freeman and other faculty members were covering it up. PAVE put pressure on the sheriff, school and superintendent by writing letters demanding an investigation. An outside investigator, Harry Jones, was hired to look into the matter. The information was disturbing. Over the course of last school year, multiple students were assaulted. Not only that, but young girls at the school are regularly harassed in the hallways. The victims of these assaults are still forced to attend class with the students who assaulted them because most haven't faced any consequences for their actions. It seems that this behavior is excused and tolerated in this middle school environment. Schools are supposed to be a safe place for children to learn. The victims in this case are being violated all over again by school officials unwilling to speak up about what is really happening at Sunnyvale Middle School. The community is still unhappy with the school's actions.
If you would like to help with this campaign, please send letters to the following:
Superintendent Doug Williams at: williams@ednet10.net
and/or:
Sunnyvale Middle School
216 Collins Road
Sunnyvale, TX 75182

We just ask that the students who were involved to no longer be attending school with those who were harassed and assaulted!

Supreme Court Rejects Death Penalty for Raping Children

On Wednesday, June 25, the Supreme Court outlawed the death penaltly for those convicted of raping a child. Whether or not you believe in the death penalty itself, you can't argue that those convicted of this crime should not be punished severly. Although the death penalty is a touchy subject that is argued by both sides of the spectrum, what is worse than raping a child? It is argued that "a life was not taken", so punishment by death would be cruel and unusual punishment. I wonder if the victim or their families feel that "a life was not taken". When someone is raped or sexually assaulted at ANY age, it is a life altering experience that some people do not come away from in a positive way. Victims of sexal assault will live with their trauma for the rest of their lives. Perpetrators oftentimes sit in a jail cell for a designated time, and then return to society. When they are sentenced to life in prison, at least they will have to endure their punishment until their days on this earth are done. Death, some will say is more fitting, but either way the perpetrators will not lead a "normal" life. Sitting in a jail cell and living with what you have done is sometimes worse than being put out of your misery by a death sentence. Every circumstance is different...
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/25367455/from/ET/

Some Justice Was Served

The woman who endured 19 hours of rape and torture by an ex convict received some justice this week. Robert Williams was found guilty of over 40 counts that included rape and attempted murder. He will be sentenced on July 24 and could be facing life in prison. Due to the nature of this attack, and his complete lack of concern, no punishment seems to be severe enough.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/25357421/from/ET/

She Survives 19 Hours of Torture

A Columbia University graduate student recounts the 19 hours of torture she was subjected to by Robert Williams, an ex convict. The young woman was able to point out her attacker in court as she described her ordeal. Williams showed no emotion in court. To hear more of her story: Please note: Some of the details given in this young womens testimony are disturbing and may not be appropriate for everyone.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/25068659/from/ET/

Convicted Serial Rapist Buried with Full Military Honors

James Allen Selby was a serial rapist convicted in 2005 on 27 counts. He hung himself on the day he was supposed to be sentenced and was given full military honors at his funeral. "Jenny's Law" which is a bill that would deny those honors for those convicted of violent sex crimes needs your support! To read more on this story in the LA Times; http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/la-oe-ream23jan23,0,5669391.story?coll=l

Can you help? YES!!! Call Chairman Bob Filner of the House Veteran's Affairs Committee at #(202)225-8045 and ask that he schedule a hearing on HR 5564 ("Jenny's Law") and send it to the House floor.

Sexual Assault Doesn't Discriminate

It doesn't matter what sex you are, the color of your skin, your ethnicity, religion or social class. It doesn't matter what country you live in, or what small part of this planet you may call home. Sexual assault happens to different people every day, all over this world. Societies address this problem in a lot of ways, but I think we can all agree that it never seems to get the attention it deserves. One group of people, right here in the United States, sees sexual assault and violence on a daily basis and yet it is still widely underreported. To read about Native Americans and their fight with this epidemic read the following: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=1220311
Amnesty International also releases a report last year:http://www.amnestyusa.org/violence-against-women/maze-of-injustice/page.do?id=1021163&n1=3&n2=39&n3=1410
>

Anonymous Rape Kits

Sexual assault victims oftentimes do not report their assault for numerous reasons. In 2009, states will be required to pay for the rape kits used in emergency rooms after an attack, even if the victim has not filed a police report. The rape exam is critical for collecting evidence and prosecuting rape cases. The "Jane Doe" kits were not always covered if a police report wasn't filed. Now the evidence collected will be in a sealed envelope with only a number to identify the victim. If the victim chooses to go forward with the case, the envelope can be opened by law enforcemnt.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080514/ap_on_re_us/jane_doe_rapes

YouTube, MySpace and Facebook

These networking and resourceful sites are free and available to anyone with internet access. Sexual assault victims are reaching out and even describing their stories on these popular sites. Victims' advocates are worried that the victims are sometimes giving out too much information. There are many pros and cons to using the internet as a outlet or helpful tool. One girl became upset when a prosecuter dropped her case and posted a video on YouTube.

http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/05/15/rape.online/index.html?iref=mpstoryview

Austria's Monster

In Austria, Josef Fritzl is accused of keeping his daughter captive for twenty-four years, raping her and fathering her children. The young woman, who is now forty-two years old, has been living in a dungeon like cellar the entire time. Fritzl's wife and the entire community claim to know nothing about the heinous crimes. Austria is known for their residents staying to themselves and guarding their privacy. How this could happen for so long is still a mystery. Some of the children fathered by Fritzl had never even seen daylight before last week. We all know that sexual abuse happens all over the world. This is yet another story where the victims felt there was no way to escape the situation because of threats from the abuser. He has been called a "tyrant" by family members.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24410960/from/ET/

Accusations Getting Worse in Texas

We have all read different accounts from the raid in west Texas at the Yearning for Zion Ranch. Not only do officials think young girls were the victims of abuse, but now they are saying it's possible the victims include young boys. There are accusations of both physical and sexual abuse for those involved. The Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints runs the ranch and has been under much scrutiny for their system of beliefs. As much as the state of Texas is trying to protect the women and children who were removed from the compound, there are a lot of ideas and opinions on whether the state officials violated the religious rights of the sect. Entering into marriage, a polygamist one at that, under the age of eighteen does not seem right in most peoples eyes. One thing that was brought up was what if the religion called for human sacrifice? Would we allow that to happen here in the United States in name of religious freedom? Read the latest information on this ongoing case.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24388249/from/ET/

America's Most Wanted Website Features P.A.V.E.

On the Safety Center section on the America's Most Wanted website, Angela Rose gives information regarding assault victims being revictimized by law enforcement. Check out the link below to learn more about this and watch the video.
Check this out, just launched from America's Most Wanted site - GO PAVE! http://safety. amw.com/communit y/victim- empowerment-through-education

Article in The Patriot Ledger by Wendy Murphy

Wendy Murphy is a well respected leading victims rights advocate. Here, she gives her take on the issue of "Rape By Fraud".
http://www.patriotledger.com/opinions/x296401291

Level 3 Sex Offender has Probation Revoked

In New Bedford, Mass. a 26 year old man was already on probation for attempted rape when he assaulted a 6 year old boy. The child describes the incident that took place on January 30th. This man could be out walking the streets once again after serving just a couple of years. Repeat sex offenders should be monitored for life if they aren't going to spend it in jail.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24035384/from/ET/

Teacher Student Sexual Relationship Leads to Resignation

In Austin, Texas, a 27 year old teacher was having a sexual relationship with one of his students. Ranulfo Arias was placed on administrative leave while the investigation was under way. There are so many cases of this happening. Schools are supposed to be a "safe" place for children. They are supposed to be a structured learning environment where we trust that our children are in good hands. What is most interesting to me is that when it is a female teacher and male student, the punishment is less severe. Why is it any different? Either way, it is a crime, a violation of trust and inapporpriate behavior.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24035384/from/ET/

Man Receives Two Life Sentences for Rape of Half Sister

In Austin, Texas, James Ray Ross was given two life sentences for sexual assault of a child and sexual assault. He raped his half sister when she was fifteen years old. The victim finally came forward because she wanted to protect her younger sister from this monster. Thankfully, justice was served. This young lady will be affected for the rest of her life, so a life sentence only seems fair. Read more about this case at http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24033636/from/ET/

Revictimization Caught on Tape

Although you will often here that criminal justice professions have received many hours of sensitivity training, many stereotypes and unscrupulous tactics seem to still be employed towards victims of sensitive crimes (aka sexual or domestic violence). Every so often in the news a victim is disbelieved and revictimized in the system meant to provide justice for them and society against violent criminals.

This story broke recently of a 13 year old girl who had been abducted and sexually assaulted, and then interrogated by a detective who made it more than clear he did not believe this young lady's story. The harsh interrogation (rather than a sensitive, victim-friendly questioning) is shown on tape at the following news link:

http://wcco.com/local/iteam.i.team.2.366870.html
(I-TEAM: DNA, Charges Mean Vindication For Victim)

How is it possible that such individuals are detectives on sensitive crime units? When victims are treated in this matter after surviving one of the most horrendous crimes, they should be given the most highly qualified, trained, and understanding professionals of the criminal justice system to assure they are not revictimized or intimidated. Can you imagine your daughter suffering this treatment??

Victim's Rights Rally

Over 30 courthouses found themselves the location for a Victim's Rights Rally on February 19, 2008 organized by PAVE (Promoting Awareness, Victim Empowerment). This date was suppose to be the third trial in the sexual assault case of Tory Bowen, and outspoken victim who protested a judge's ruling that she could not use the word 'sexual assault' or 'rape' to describe the alleged assault she endured Oct 31, 2004.

Check out the footage of the Chicago Rally led by Angela Rose on youtube.com:

http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=X6orvfYNhsc

Although many states have statutes that protect certain rights for victims of crimes, many victims find themselves re-victimized by the criminal justice system. No where is this more evident than for crimes of sexual and domestic violence. Often victims of such crimes are female and are blamed for the violence done against them. The Victim's Rights Rally this last Tuesday is necessary to show that silence will not be the response to sexually violent crimes.

Awareness and activism however will not end here! April 29th, 2008 is Angela Shelton Day, a day PAVE and many other organization will be banning together with Angela Shelton to launch a Report It Now! Campaign. Sexual violence is often a silent crime since many offenders are often known to the victim and because of fear by victims that reporting the crime will lead to further victimization. Since April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, this campaign is more than fitting to give a voice to victims and survivors around this country. Those who want to end sexual assault will be launching a campaign that encourages and supports victims and survivors to shatter the silence of sexual violence! Only through shattering this silence can victims receive more recognition and rights in court, and ultimately have a better chance at receiving justice for the crimes done to them. To be involved or find out more information, please e-mail info@pavingtheway.net.

For further coverage of the Victim's Rights Rally feel free to view the following websites:
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/schaumburg/news/793284,sc-prerightsrally-021408-s1.article
http://media.www.dailynebraskan.com/media/storage/paper857/news/2008/02/20/News/Rallies.Support.Victims.Rights.In.Rape.Sexual.Assault.Trials-3220677.shtml