PORT TOWNSEND — The Jefferson County Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Program is gearing up for Sexual Assault Awareness Month throughout April, during which various events will take place to spread knowledge of sexual assault.
“My concerns as of late are really about awareness,” said Executive Director Cheryl Bozarth.
“We want people to be alert, prepared and assertive.”
Bozarth said victim services in Jefferson County are much better than in other parts of the state.
Bozarth said she works closely with law enforcement and the prosecutor’s office, but because those facets mostly deal with those who are being criminally charged, the Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Program sees more people affected by abuse.
“We probably have a better pulse about it,” said Bozarth.
“What’s going on right now is a situation where sexual assault is going on at a rate that is alarming given the size of our community.”
In 2004-05, 1,791 services were provided to Jefferson County residents by Bozarth’s agency, including advocacy-based counseling, legal advocacy, crisis intervention and an emergency shelter.
Victim often blamed
One of the main issues regarding sexual assault, said Bozarth, is that the victim is often blamed.
“The number one fear is that they won’t be believed,” said Bozarth.
Prosecuting Attorney Juelie Dalzell agrees.
“In every rape trial I’ve done, the victim is on trial instead of the rapist,” Dalzell said.
Bozarth said she defines sexual assault as any intentional sexual conduct characterized by a use of force or physical threat or abuse of authority.
She said the goal of the Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Program is to make victims feel like they can come forward without fear.
A community task force on sexual assault is being established that will comprise law enforcement and various social service agencies to make it easier for victims to extricate themselves from abusive situations.
“The goal of it is that we have a core victim-centered community response,” said Bozarth.