DA Presses for Sexual Assault Victims to Come Forward

DA Addresses Sexual Assault, Urges Victims to Seek Help

The Alameda County District Attorney’s Office is actively reaching out to victims of sexual assault, emphasizing the availability of support services and encouraging them to come forward. District Attorney Pamela Price stated that the office’s primary goal is to minimize trauma for victims. She highlighted the Family Justice Center in Oakland, which offers a range of services, including counseling through the Trauma Recovery Center.

A resource fair was held at the Family Justice Center to connect victims with various providers. This outreach is part of a broader effort during April, designated as Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and coinciding with Victims’ Rights Week. The office has produced public service announcements in English and Spanish, shared on social media and radio, to inform the public about available resources and support.

Support Systems for Victims

The Family Justice Center collaborates with 33 partner organizations, and the Victim Witness Advocate Program works with 28 affiliated partners. “We don’t use pain for gain,” Price asserted, assuring victims that their privacy and autonomy will be protected. She stressed that sexual assault is a serious reality, not a political talking point, affecting cases from local incidents to international attention, including allegations against public figures like Representative Eric Swalwell.

Victims who are ready to share their experiences are encouraged to contact law enforcement or the District Attorney’s Office directly at 510-272-6222. For those who may need counseling before reporting, the Trauma Recovery Center can be reached at 510-267-8800. The DA’s office aims to provide justice and support without judgment or coercion.

Navigating Investigations and Conflicts

When asked about allegations against Representative Eric Swalwell, a former prosecutor in the office, DA Price declined to comment on open investigations. She explained that discussing such cases publicly can lead to recusal and hinder the work on behalf of victims. “We are actively involved in trying to figure out if there are any victims who can come forward,” she stated.

Price emphasized the critical role of victims in sexual assault cases, noting that without their cooperation, prosecution is impossible. “I can’t force a victim to come forward.

Actually, it’s against the law to do so,” she said. The message is clear: the office is prepared to assist victims of sexual assault, particularly those with allegations against Swalwell, and has a long history of supporting victims.

Understanding Justice for Victims

The definition of justice can vary significantly for each victim, as Price explained. “Justice looks like what people feel they need to be healed,” she said. For some, justice might mean pursuing a trial and incarceration for the accused, while for others, it could involve therapy and avoiding the perpetrator.

The District Attorney’s Office is committed to supporting victims’ individual definitions of justice, whether that involves a legal battle or personal healing. The focus remains on empowering victims to decide what path is best for them.

Cultural Shifts in Handling Sexual Assault Allegations

Regarding the culture within the DA’s office and its handling of sexual assault cases, Price acknowledged significant changes, particularly following the #MeToo movement. “The fact that right now, specifically after the Me Too movement, there is an automatic um push by everyone to believe any victim who makes an allegation is totally different than when I was in college,” she observed.

While acknowledging that pockets of problematic culture may still exist in powerful circles, Price stated that her office has implemented mandatory sexual harassment training, which was not standard when she began her career. She stressed the importance of breaking down any culture that enables or ignores sexual misconduct, especially in positions of power.

Campaign Contributions and Focus on Victims

When questioned about returning campaign contributions, DA Price firmly redirected the conversation back to the primary focus on victims. “I’m not talking about campaign information today, nor am I talking about Ms. Price… This is not about politics.

This is about victims,” she stated emphatically. She reiterated that the day’s proceedings were dedicated to supporting victims of crime, not engaging in political discussions.

The District Attorney’s Office continues its commitment to supporting victims and ensuring they have access to the resources and justice they deserve. The next resource fair is scheduled for April 29th, coinciding with Denim Day, a national event to protest sexual violence and support survivors.

Source: WATCH LIVE: DA addresses alleged victims in case tied to Eric Swalwell (YouTube)