Awful

5 Sexual Assault Victims Hung Out To Dry By The Legal System

We were alarmed yesterday when we heard about Savannah Dietrich, a 17-year-old victim of sexual assault, whose two attackers reportedly spread photos of the assault around. But while the case itself was shocking, the aftermath took the awful circumstances of the case to a whole new level.

The two perpetrators, both minors, pled guilty to first-degree sexual abuse and misdemeanor voyeurism, according to the Courier-Journal. But in an awful twist, Dietrich said she wasn’t even told of the deal — which she found far too lenient — until it was announced in court. Outraged, Dietrich went on Twitter, where she called her attackers out by name. Now Dietrich may be held in contempt of court and may face jail time, because she violated a gag order imposed on the case, due to the defendants’ age. This, despite that fact that her attackers distributed photos of the actual assault online. In short, this situation is utterly appalling.

And, sadly, it’s one of many incidences in which sexual assault victims have been hung out to dry. In light of this case, here are a few other shocking stories — ones that should serve as a reminder that victims aren’t always given the consideration they deserve.

(Image of Savannah Dietrich via 4vf)

TAGS: legal | savannah dietrich

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