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For Immediate Release: December 14, 2004 Contact: Angeline Martyn Sexual Assault & Trauma Resource Center 401-421-4100 ext. 223 amartyn@satrc.org Law Enforcement Advocate joins Providence Special Victims Unit and Sex Crimes Unit in a new collaboration serving victims of sexual assault and domestic violence The Providence Police Department in partnership with the Sexual Assault & Trauma Resource Center, and Sojourner House, a domestic violence agency, announces a new position and resource for victims of sexual assault and domestic violence. On behalf of these agencies, Colonel Esserman announces the appointment of Cristina Costa as the Providence Law Enforcement Advocate (LEA). As law enforcement advocate Ms. Costa will work in both the Special Victims Unit and Sex Crimes Unit of the Providence Police Department. Ms. Costa is proficient in English, Spanish and Portuguese and will provide crisis intervention and follow-up services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Her responsibilities include meeting and servicing victims at crime scenes, hospitals, police interviews, and court proceedings. She will provide telephone and in-person interviews with victims, assess victim's needs, and liaise with social service and advocacy professionals. She will also provide sexual assault and domestic violence awareness and sensitivity trainings to police, community and advocacy groups. "The Law Enforcement Advocate program provides for support and advocacy for victims and their families during times of crisis" stated Colonel Dean M. Essserman. "The advocate provides assistance for both the victim and investigators, and is an asset to everyone involved in the process." "It's critical that victims of sexual assault in Providence have immediate access to LEA services", says Peg Langhammer, executive director, Sexual Assault & Trauma Resource Center of RI. "I am confident that Cristina Costa will be well received by the Providence community, and that she will be instrumental in providing this fundamental service." "The addition of the Law Enforcement Advocate position in Providence will make a real difference in our ability to partner with the Providence Police Department to support victims of domestic violence," says Betty Bailey, executive director, Sojourner House. The Law Enforcement Advocate provides services free of charge. If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault or domestic violence in Providence, Ms. Costa is accessible for support, information and advocacy. She can be reached at the Providence Police Department by calling 401-243-6344. Law Enforcement Advocates are available in four additional regions statewide: Northern Rhode Island, Warwick, East Bay and Cranston. The Providence LEA position is funded by the Victims of Crime Act, (VOCA) designed under the federal Victims of Crime Act of 1984. This grant provides for funding to bring support to victims and to strengthen collaboration between police and service providers. For additional information on related services contact the 24 Hour Victims of Crime Helpline at 1-800-494-8100.
SATRC invites parents to a family workshop "Befriend her. Gain her trust. Talk openly with her….The average sex offender knows exactly how to communicate with your child…DO YOU?" reads the campaign materials distributed by SATRC in conjunction with the family sessions. "As a society, we take great stock in protecting our children from 'stranger danger' says Peg Langhammer," Executive Director, SATRC. "We teach our children not to talk to strangers, to run away if they feel threatened by unfamiliar people, and to never, ever go off alone with someone they do not know. Today, we aim to educate beyond the stranger. The reality is that about 60% of perpetrators are non-relative acquaintances, such as a friend of the family, babysitter, or neighbor, and 30% of those who sexually abuse children are relatives." "We need to give parents and other caring adults the resources they need to communicate with their children about offenders they may know," suggests Langhammer. "We also need to give them the tools they need to react appropriately when someone tries to hurt them." This is the final session of a series held around the state to give adults the skills and tools necessary to talk to their children openly and honestly about sexual abuse. Families are encouraged to bring their children who will participate in Keeping Kids Safe Activities. Make no mistake about it, preventing abuse and dealing with it when it happens is critical to the well-being of children and to our state. It has been well documented that when sexually abused children are not identified or treated, society must deal with the resulting problems: depression, eating disorders, adolescent pregnancy, drug abuse, crime, suicide, and sex offending." Sponsors of this workshop include Citizens Bank, CVS, GTECH, The Providence Journal, Kiwanis Club of Newport, and Child & Family Services. To register call 401-421-4100, ext. 212.
Join Us "Under The Stars" and Dance The Night Away! Under the Stars is the premier summer event to benefit SATRC's advocacy, crisis intervention, counseling, and prevention education programs, as well as the RI Children's Advocacy Center. In 2003, SATRC provided services to more than 6,500 individuals. For thirty years, SATRC has been responding to the needs of sexual assault victims throughout Rhode Island. Its mission is to reduce the trauma and prevalence of sexual abuse and violence. For the past several years, the event has sold out. Tickets are $125 and are available immediately by calling SATRC at 401-421-4100 ext. 232 or e-mailing Linda at lbainer@satrc.org. Tables of 10 can be reserved for $1500.Major Sponsors: Citizens Bank, GTECH, Johnson & Wales University, The Providence Journal, NBC10, Campus Fine Wines
One In Eight Adult Women in Rhode Island has been a Victim of Forcible Rape in her Lifetime The report entitled, "Rape in Rhode Island: A Report to the State," funded by a grant from the United States Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, dramatically shows the impact sexual assault has on our entire state. The report was prepared by the National Violence Against Women Prevention Research Center, utilizing data from two nationally recognized studies. This is the first time Rhode Islanders have ever received state-level data on the prevalence of rape. "Until we acknowledge the prevalence of sexual violence in our community, we cannot hope to end it. These findings demonstrate vividly the urgent need to stop sexual violence before it happens and to respond when it occurs effectively, efficiently and with compassion," said Peg Langhammer, Executive Director of the Sexual Assault & Trauma Resource Center. In response to "One in Eight" SATRC is proposing an eight-step program to help with the prevention of sexual violence, the intervention of sexual assault and the treatment of victims. The program is called, "A Vision to End Sexual Violence." In the coming year, SATRC will join with stakeholders in corrections, education, law enforcement, prosecution, lawmakers and community members to develop detailed plans in each of the areas outlined in the eight-step program. "Rhode Islanders must recognize sexual assault as a serious public health threat that causes physical as well as devastating emotional and psychological damage," said Dr. Patricia Nolan, Director of RI Department of Health. A significant number of rape victims experience post-traumatic stress disorder, major depression, substance abuse and attempted suicide. Senator Jack Reed, Congressman Patrick Kennedy, Attorney General Patrick Lynch, and Colonel Steven Pare pledged their support for increasing prevention education programs for both children and adults and increasing public awareness of sexual assault. "It is time for Rhode Islanders, as a community, to commit to solving this epidemic, as they would any other health issue that threatens their loved ones," said Congressman Patrick Kennedy. Nationwide, violence against women is clearly at the top of the list of primary concerns among women. The findings of this report give Rhode Islanders a chance to prioritize sexual assault as a major health issue, " said Senator Jack Reed. The Sexual Assault & Trauma Resource Center of Rhode Island has been providing services for victims of sexual assault and other violent crimes for nearly thirty years. In 2002, SATRC served a total of 8,325 victims and their families through a comprehensive range of services. For more than fifteen years, the Rhode Island Department of Health has been partnering with the Sexual Assault & Trauma Resource Center to provide rape prevention education in Rhode Island schools.
"Common Threads"…a support group for children who have lost a loved one to homicide or other
sudden traumatic event Anyone who has lost a family member or a friend to a homicide or sudden traumatic event suffers a special kind of grief that goes far beyond the pain of losing a loved one to death. Fear, shame, intrusive memories, reliving the event through a barrage of media attention, endless court proceedings, are only some of the traumas faced by surviving family and friends. "Common Threads", addresses all of these issues. "Common Threads" is a program of the Sexual Assault & Trauma Resource Center. Executive Director, Peg Langhammer adds, "While it has been weeks since The Station Nightclub fire claimed the lives of 99 people, we recognize the pain and suffering of their families and friends will last forever. No one can ever be the same after a tragedy of this scope. With the financial support we received from the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA), our Common Threads program is available to assist these families with individual and group counseling." Call for information and registration, 401-421-4100 ext. 230. Insurance accepted…no one will be turned away due to inability to pay.
Newport Kiwanis Make Young Children Priority One Youth hockey, pop-warner football, school scholarships, reading programs, whatever the program, the Newport Kiwanis has come through with assistance. Recently, the Kiwanis formed a special committee entitled, "Young Children Priority One", and decided to adopt the Rhode Island Children's Advocacy Center (CAC), as its number one project. Committee Chairperson, Annette Bourbonniere said, "The group thought it was definitely a great way to help children and support other organizations already working with them." The CAC-Newport opened in July of last year at the city's police headquarters. As a program of the Sexual Assault & Trauma Resource Center of Rhode Island (SATRC), the CAC provides sexually abused children and the non-offending parent/guardian with forensic interviewing, evaluation and treatment services. In addition to raising $1350 to purchase video equipment for the Newport CAC, members of "Young Children Priority One", donated cases of teddy bears, toys and puzzles for the children. "We are always so appreciative when members of the community step forward on their own to help, it makes our work that much easier, said Peg Langhammer, Executive Director of the SATRC. Last year, the RI Children's Advocacy Center served 260 children and adults with developmental disabilities. The CAC is modeled after the National Children's Advocacy Center. It utilizes a multi-disciplinary team approach involving prosecution, law enforcement, child protection, medical personnel, mental health professionals and human service providers. The emphasis is on coordination and teamwork among professionals. Through this approach, and the use of established protocols, the number and types of interviews the child and family must endure are greatly reduced.
1 In 5 Children Will Be A Victim Of Sexual Abuse Before The Age Of 18 "1 in 5 children will be a victim of sexual assault before the age of 18. Most won't tell anyone, and the offender will very likely be someone they know. The numbers are alarming and difficult to process. But they should be more than enough to motivate every member of this community to take personal steps to help end sexual violence," said Langhammer. Mayor Cicilline praised the prevention work that SATRC's "Keeping Kids Safe" program is doing in the city. The age appropriate, school based program is offered to schools statewide. Last year, over twenty schools took part, reaching roughly five thousand students. Windmill School Principal Monica Nagy brings the program in for all of her fifth grade students. "If you give students the knowledge and the tools they need to understand the issues related to personal safety, they will be less likely to become victims of sexual abuse, " said Principal Nagy. Today a second grade class at Windmill School listened to SATRC's education specialists and later drew pictures about the things that make them feel safe. DCYF Director, Jay Lindgren remarked, "on the need for trusting relationships in the lives of children. Sexual abuse is a physical and emotional violation of the innocence of youth-of the bond children develop with others. We see what it does to children everyday." "Our best work on behalf of children has always been the result of partnerships and collaborations. Now, more than ever, we are asking for the public's help in the fight against sexual abuse. This is a community-wide epidemic-one that everyone has a role in solving," Peg Langhammer added.
CONTACT: ROBIN COSTELLO SEXUAL ASSAULT & TRAUMA RESOURCE CENTER 421-4100 ext.23
STATEMENT TO THE MEDIA Providence - As Catholic Bishops across the country prepare to meet in Dallas on Thursday, June 13, 2002, the world
will be anxiously awaiting word on their final recommendations to deal with allegations of clergy sexual abuse in the
Church. In light of this historic opportunity for religious leaders to deal with this crisis head on -- with honesty, integrity
and compassion, Executive Director Peg Langhammer of the Sexual Assault & Trauma Resource Center of RI (SATRC) issues this statement:
"My thoughts are with the countless survivors of sexual assault who have endured painful months of revelations about
clergy abuse and indifference from Church officials. Their powerful voices have helped bring us to this historic moment.
We know from many victims who have reached out to our agency, that they continue to struggle with the injustice and the ignorance that goes hand in hand with sexual abuse," said Executive Director Peg Langhammer.
"As an active member of the National Alliance to End Sexual Violence and the National Children's Alliance, both of whom have issued strong statements on clergy abuse, our position is clear. There is no room for compromise when it
comes to sexual abuse. We are committed to creating an environment where all women, men and children are safe and
free from the destructive hands of a sexual predator. The Catholic Church must stand strong and take responsibility for
the unspeakable crimes clergy members have inflicted on young, innocent children and for those who were in a position
of authority and chose to look the other way. The Bishops have the power to force change, to make it crystal clear that
sexual abuse - past or present - will not be tolerated. We challenge them to make the right choices on behalf of children everywhere," Langhammer added. Statement to Media Good Morning
The incidence of child sexual abuse in this country is startling. According to the FBI, one in four girls and one in six boys will be sexually abused before the age of 18. Sexual abuse is a crime that invades every aspect of our
society – it knows no economic, cultural, or religious boundaries. For more than 30 years, the Sexual Assault & Trauma Resource Center has reached and responded to the needs
of victims of sexual assault. Each year we serve thousands of Rhode Islanders through advocacy, counseling, and prevention education. We know the road to healing is full of obstacles. Often victims feel shame and fear, most
victims never report the crime, and worse…when they do, many people simply don't believe them. The legal process can be harsh and long---the perpetrator very often goes free.
Last night we held a forum. We had the opportunity to talk with a dozen survivors who had been sexually abused by members of the clergy. We listened to their thoughts on what the past few months have been like now that the
local and national spotlight is focused on this issue. The stories are painful and compelling…their struggles are all
different. It was actually the first time many of them had been able to sit face to face with someone else who has shared a similar, horrifying experience. They say they're trying to put their lives back together, but things will
never be the way they dreamed. Their families try to help and do, but it's sometimes too much, even for them. The group unanimously decided to continue meeting on a regular basis to gain strength from one another. Their
primary concern is to make sure what happened to them, never happens to anyone else. One of the survivors who came to the forum last night, Michael Whalen, will talk with you about his experience as a victim of sexual
abuse in just a minute. Several months ago, in light of a growing number of disclosures of abuse within the Catholic Church, we asked
the Diocese of Providence for their policies concerning sexual abuse. After reviewing the policies, we were concerned that they did not present a clear and effective method of preventing and reporting sexual abuse. Today
we are here to share recommendations we've given to the Diocese. Although, they are directed specifically to the Diocese, we believe the recommendations are applicable to every religious institution and organization in the
state. We are the first to acknowledge that the problem of sexual assault does not rest solely with the Catholic Church. We had a positive meeting with Church officials yesterday. They say many of the policy
recommendations are things they are doing in practice, but have yet to spell out in their written policy. We encourage them to revise their policy as quickly as possible incorporating these recommendations and explicitly
outlining how the Diocese handles allegations of sexual abuse in the church. As we begin Sexual Assault Awareness Month in Rhode Island, we see a critical need for change. The facts tell
us, sexual assault is still robbing children of innocence, families are being torn apart, faith is being destroyed. The crime of sexual assault can cause severe and lasting trauma…in some cases it even claims lives. Our agency is
here first and foremost for victims, to guide them through the healing process and to help the community respond effectively to sexual abuse. We can not allow this crime to claim more victims. |
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