Sexual assault is one of the most traumatic experiences a person can go through. An assailant violates the rights and autonomy of another individual, with no regard for their desires and well-being. Despite what many people think, sexual abuse is about more than just sex; it is a crime rooted in power, humiliation, and brutality.
Unfortunately, assailants sometimes include those who are sworn to protect us. It is well-known that law enforcement sometimes attracts people who want to exercise—and abuse—the power afforded to them over others. Experiencing sexual assault at the hands of a police officer can compound the impact of an already heinous offense. As a victim, you may feel unsafe approaching police for help after experiencing such a crime. You are not alone, and the Philadelphia police sexual assault lawyers at Marrone Law Firm, LLC are here to help.
Contact a sexual abuse lawyer to find out how we could help you pursue the justice you deserve.
Sexual assault refers to any non-consensual sexual act. Typically, sexual assault occurs when an individual forcibly touches another—or forces another to touch them—in a sexual manner. Sexual assault of any kind can cause physical injury, sexually transmitted diseases, emotional distress, mental anguish, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and more. For female victims of childbearing age, there is a risk of potential pregnancy.
The aftermath of an assault can be incredibly painful for victims. People respond to sexual assault in a variety of ways, sometimes by withdrawing, isolating, self-harming, and abusing substances. The assailant responsible for an assault should be held liable for the damages their victim suffers. If an assailant doubles as a police officer, a sexual assault lawyer could determine whether the Philadelphia Police Department or other law enforcement agency may share financial liability.
In Philadelphia and beyond, police officers have a tremendous amount of power. They are allowed to use force in a wide range of scenarios, including situations in which regular citizens would be penalized for it. Similarly, police can legally detain others. Because of their duty to protect and serve, people often presume law enforcement officers are honest and unless likely to commit a crime. This naïve, and ultimately incorrect, belief makes it difficult for victims of police brutality, including police sexual assault, to come forward.
Just like any other individual, a police officer can sexually assault people in their private or social lives. However, police are in a unique power position that allows them to sexually abuse people while on the job, with little fear of being caught or facing criminal consequences.
It is not just a sexual offense when an officer commits sexual assault while working, but a form of police brutality. Opportunities for an officer to commit sexual assault include traffic stops, arrests, and social outreach programs.
During a traffic stop, an officer can choose to isolate and exert control over their victim. They could then execute an overt act of brutality—once referred to as forcible rape—or coerce and threaten the victim to engage in sexual behavior. Victims may feel afraid to use any physical self-defense for fear of being physically overpowered or accused of assaulting a law enforcement officer.
Arrests create a similar opportunity, as victims may be in handcuffs or other restraints and at the mercy of their arresting officer. Furthermore, a police officer could easily excuse physical indications of their assault, such as bruises or other marks, as evidence the victim was resisting arrest. If a victim is under arrest for substantiated allegations, law enforcement may view claims of officer sexual assault as suspicious.
Police officers exercise power even in informal situations. Community outreach programs exist to connect police officers with children and other vulnerable members of society. Tragically, these programs can provide excellent cover for predator police officers looking for victims to sexually assault.
No matter how or where a police officer sexually assaulted you, a Philadelphia attorney could help protect your rights, build a strong case against your attacker, and pursue justice and compensation on your behalf.
Police officers who commit crimes do more than victimize one person—they abuse their power and weaken the entire criminal justice system. While it is essential to uncover their crimes to protect others, coming forward can be terrifying for victims.
When you are ready to get the justice you deserve, trust the Philadelphia police sexual assault lawyers at Marrone Law Firm, LLC to help you. Schedule a consultation to find out more about how we can assist you in getting compensation.