Superintendent feigns ignorance
Signs seen in subways blazoned with the slogan "see something, say something," were inspired by what teachers do everyday. Whether minor or major infractions, teachers and students are trained to let those in charge know what's going on.
Back in November, a teacher's aide fondled a five-year-old autistic boy, according to The Buffalo News. Charlene Harris, a special education teacher at Discovery School 67, witnessed the assault and did what anyone would do; she let the principal know.
When the principal dismissed her claim, Harris sent a restricted letter via certified mail to Superintendent James A. Williams. She expected some sort of investigation, but nothing was done.
While Williams denies knowing about the allegations, his signature is on the receipt of delivery. Williams claims that he sometimes receives thousands of letters per week, which is not an excuse for missing this case.
Plain and simple, the superintendent was irresponsible to ignore multiple allegations in such an important case. Passing the blame makes him seem as guilty as the disgraced teacher's aide.
Harris called the superintendent's office a week later. Still nothing. While this inaction went on, the aide was in the classroom with the boy until March. He was finally fired earlier this month after the story broke, according to The Buffalo News.
Both the teacher and the superintendent knew their job description; to aid learning. Instead of having their priorities straight, Williams and the aide both put themselves first and morality second.
If you see something, say something. Don't just cover it up.
Sexual assault victim's tragedy becomes twofold
Police neither serve nor protect
Most people feel safe after calling the police in a time of crisis. The officers will meet you and take you to the emergency room if you're unable to get there on your own, according to the Rape Crisis Services' Web site.
The benefits of a rape kit are plentiful. A victim can make sure he or she will not have a permanent injury from the attack. The kit can prove that a rape occurred, and reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancy if done in conjunction with other medical treatment.
Most importantly, a rape kit allows a victim to preserve evidence: should they not be ready to press charges, DNA and forensic evidence will be available for up to seven years, which is the statute of limitations for rape in NY.
Despite the benefits, Buffalo Police will often encourage a victim to have a rape kit done only if they agree to press charges. For a victim that may be confused, traumatized or otherwise not ready to agree to an investigation and potentially a lengthy trial, the need to agree in return for medical attention will often deter victims from getting the help they need.
Should rape or sexual assault happen to you or someone you love, here's what you need to know:
No one can deny you a rape kit, so be smart and use your voice. Police departments carry out their policy (no charges, no rape kit) to prevent people from only crying wolf. Rape kits are expensive, and there's seemingly little purpose in obtaining one if a victim isn't going to pursue legal recourse.
Rape is the only crime nationwide where victims have to pay for the collection of evidence to support their claim, according to Rape Crisis Services. A rape kit costs the victim $600 to complete, though victims can be reimbursed for it by the Crime Victims Board in addition to lost wages and hospital bills.
Even when rape kits are offered sometimes more is needed. Insurance will cover expenses such as HIV-rejection drugs and the morning after pill, but these treatments sometimes aren't offered, and victims don't know to ask for them. The pill is mild in comparison to rejection drugs, which wreak havoc on the body, so be prepared to make recovery a priority.
Limiting collection to only those willing to press charges shouldn't be a barrier. Victims have a right to evidence of a crime preserved, and to have medical options, not blockades put before them by law enforcement officials and medical personnel. Evidence that can be preserved for an infinite period should be an option for all victims, some of whom may not be able to press charges until years later due to family circumstances, age or other personal limitations.
With the law allows survivors up to seven years to pursue rape charges against an attacker, preserving evidence is of the utmost importance, and gives victims legal options in addition to necessary medical attention.
Male or female, officers can be insensitive to the emotional needs of a victim. People need to remember that police officers aren't social workers; they're not paid for their counsel. But they do have a duty to protect and serve, and being insensitive to victims isn't upholding it. Should you become a victim of rape or sexual assault, knowing your rights and being able to make an informed decision can be an important remedy when faced with insensitivity and coldness.
