A late-night call, a closed clinic, and a stack of unanswered emails set the stage for one of the most determined quests for justice you’ll hear this year. We walk through Kaitlin Hurley’s drug-facilitated rape in Antigua, the UK police officer who tried to outrun accountability, and the father who refused to let an international border or a slow bureaucracy be the end of the story.We start with the numbers—why sexual violence remains vastly underreported and how rates in the UK and the Eastern Caribbean highlight a global crisis—then move into the granular realities of response: trauma-informed policing that helped, harmful missteps that nearly derailed the case, and the crucial role of preserved messages and medical evidence. From there, we open the black box of extradition. You’ll hear how errors stalled requests, why a UK judge first denied removal over prison conditions, and how coordinated diplomacy, detailed prison audits, and a high-level sign-off finally brought the perpetrator back to face trial and a 15-year sentence.Beyond the courtroom, we tackle the cultural work that actually reduces harm. We discuss practical safety for online dating without shifting blame to survivors, and we press into prevention that starts with men—building respect, empathy, and consent as norms. Derrick Hurley shares how this case reshaped his life, from writing Antiguan Justice: A Father’s Fight to delivering trauma-informed training and supporting communities with high rates of missing and murdered Indigenous women.Subscribe for more conversations that pair survivor-centered storytelling with actionable insight. If this resonated, share it with someone who needs to hear it, and leave a review to help others find the show.

In this episode, two parent-advocates - each with a child diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) - share how ASD shapes communication, safety, and trust, and why lived experience should guide training for police, firefighters, EMTs, and courts. Together with Cheryl Stehle and Jamiel Owens, we explore misread behaviors, practical de-escalation, family preparation, and the need for policy that reduces harm.When neurodivergent people interact with first responders a single misunderstanding can turn a routine interaction into a crisis. We sit down with two parents whose lived experience with ASD reshaped how they see safety, communication, and trust—and how first responders can, too. Their personal stories and experiences move from early fear about ASD and confusing diagnoses to purposeful advocacy that prioritizes dignity and practical skills.We unpack what ASD really means in day-to-day life—why one person’s eye contact challenges or stimming are not defiance, and how processing time, clear language, or a written prompt can lower the temperature fast. Jamiel shares how fatherhood and his role at the Center for Autism Research inform an approach that treats difference as a lens, not a deficit. Cheryl explains how AUTT training equips police, firefighters, EMTs, and juvenile probation with field-ready habits: pause to observe, ask neutral questions about communication needs, and look for tools like blue envelopes, ID cards, or a support contact. The message is simple and actionable: just ask, then adjust.We also talk about preparation within the family especially when domestic violence is present. An autism go-bag with headphones, comfort items, and a communication device can restore predictability during stressful moves or shelter entry. We discuss emergency preparedness practices for people living with ASD such as visiting police stations, seeing emergency response gear up close, and rehearsing traffic-stop steps that can prevent sensory shock and build confidence. Finally, we push for systems change: mandate recurring, lived-experience-led autism training across public safety platforms; create policy that normalizes optional license notations and standardized info kits; and fund community-curated resource hubs that actually meet families where they are.If this conversation resonates, share it with a caregiver, a first responder, or a policymaker who can put it to work.

One decision in the interview room can change a life—or ruin it. We sit down with interrogation expert David Thompson to unpack why survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and trafficking are uniquely vulnerable to false confessions, and how science‑backed interviewing protects truth without compromising justice. The conversation moves past TV tropes and into what the data actually show: a significant share of DNA exonerations include confessions that never should have happened. We explore the three core errors that drive these outcomes—misclassification, coercion, and contamination—and translate them into plain‑language risk points that any investigator, advocate, or attorney can spot and fix.Rather than glorifying confrontation, we focus on curiosity, empathy, and structure. David explains how trauma‑informed, rapport‑based interviewing increases disclosure, accuracy, and case solvability—all backed by large-scale field studies. We talk about why behavioral “lie detection” fails, how the false evidence tactic breeds memory distrust, and what simple safeguards—recording, open‑ended prompts, time limits, legal counsel, trained advocates—do to keep both survivors and cases safe. Along the way, we examine gendered bias in financial abuse cases - pointing to an example featured in the Netflix documentary film, "Tinder Swindler." We also explore youth and disability as vulnerability multipliers, and the ripple effects wrongful convictions have on public trust and real offender accountability.If you work in law enforcement, legal practice, advocacy, or forensic nursing—or you’re simply a citizen who cares about justice—this discussion offers a practical roadmap to prevent harm while getting better results.

Pregnancy should be a time of joy and anticipation, but for thousands of American women each year, it becomes the most dangerous period of their lives. In this eye-opening conversation with Professor Elizabeth Tobin-Tyler of Brown University, we explore the shocking reality that homicide is a leading cause of traumatic death for pregnant and postpartum women, accounting for 31% of maternal injury deaths.Professor Tobin-Tyler draws on her unique background spanning both law and public health to explain how pregnancy often triggers escalating violence in abusive relationships. When an abuser's need for control meets the shifting attention and resources that accompany pregnancy, the results can be deadly—particularly for Black women, who die at five times the rate of white women from homicide during pregnancy.We dive into the complex systems that fail pregnant survivors, from healthcare settings where brief appointments and the presence of abusers make disclosure difficult, to legal frameworks that inadequately protect women from armed abusers. The conversation explores innovative solutions like medical-legal partnerships that bring lawyers into healthcare settings to address both medical and social determinants of health simultaneously.The ripple effects of this violence extend far beyond individual families. Children exposed to domestic violence face lifelong health consequences, creating an estimated $8 billion annual economic burden across healthcare, education, and criminal justice systems. Despite these staggering costs, funding for research and services continues to face cuts.You'll come away from this conversation with a new understanding of how Medicaid access, firearm regulations, and community-based services can save lives, along with practical advice for supporting pregnant survivors in your own community. Professor Tobin-Tyler challenges us all to stop normalizing violence against women and to recognize pregnant women as valuable human beings in their own right—not just as vessels for their children.

What happens when protection orders fail? In November 2019, Tiffany Hill did everything by the book to protect herself from her abusive husband. She reported his violence, obtained no-contact orders, and worked closely with law enforcement. Yet she was still murdered in front of her children and mother while sitting in her car outside an elementary school.Former Washington State Senator Lynda Wilson had already recognized this deadly gap in victim protection. Years before Tiffany's murder, Wilson had introduced legislation for GPS monitoring with real-time victim notification—a system that creates electronic "geofences" around domestic violence survivors. Had this technology been in place, Tiffany might have received a warning when her estranged husband approached, potentially saving her life.This powerful episode brings together three key figures who transformed this tragedy into lifesaving change: Senator Wilson, whose own childhood experiences with domestic violence fueled her advocacy; Sergeant Tanya Wollstein of the Vancouver Police Department, who investigated Tiffany's case and now implements the monitoring program; and Senior Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Lauren Boyd, who fought for higher bail to keep Tiffany's killer behind bars.Their conversation reveals both the frustrating limitations of our current legal system—including Washington's constitutional "right to bail" that allowed Tiffany's killer to be released—and the promising results of the technology that now bears her name. Today, approximately 240 domestic violence offenders in Clark County wear ankle monitors that alert victims when their abuser comes within 1,000 feet, with early data showing reduced recidivism rates.Through heartbreaking details of Tiffany's story and illuminating insights into how the justice system works (and sometimes doesn't), this episode offers a masterclass in turning personal tragedy into community protection. Listen now to understand how this groundbreaking approach to victim safety might be implemented in your community.

Forensic Genetic Genealogy (FGG) stands at the frontier of criminal justice, offering new hope for cases that have remained unsolved for decades. This groundbreaking conversation takes us inside the Center for Human Identification (CHI) at the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth - the first public lab in the nation providing comprehensive FGG services to law enforcement.In this episode, Robert Moore, Director of the Investigative Support Unit, explains how this technology is revolutionizing criminal investigations by comparing crime scene DNA to profiles in public genealogy databases. The process has breathed new life into cold cases across Texas, particularly benefiting smaller agencies with limited resources. With 254 counties in Texas and many police departments averaging just 18 officers, CHI's free DNA testing services provide a lifeline for investigations that might otherwise remain unsolved.The most powerful moments in this conversation come from genealogist Susan Davis, who shares her personal journey as both a sexual assault survivor and genetics expert. Her vulnerability in discussing her own 1981 attack by a serial predator underscores the human impact of this technology. "Had FGG been available then," she reflects, "it would have saved lives and prevented other women from suffering similar attacks." Her story illustrates how science can transform trauma into purpose—Davis now spends her days identifying perpetrators in hours rather than the years it often took traditional methods.Through compelling case studies, including that of a serial rapist identified in just five hours after decades evading justice, we witness the transformative potential of genetic genealogy when placed in capable hands. The conversation reflects both scientific precision and profound human compassion for victims who have waited far too long for answers.

In this episode, Pagan Kennedy, author of "The Secret History of the Rape Kit," reveals the untold story behind the rape kit, a forensic tool that revolutionized sexual assault investigations but whose creator, Marty Goddard, was erased from history. Through meticulous research, Kennedy uncovered how Goddard developed this life-changing evidence collection system in 1970s Chicago while facing systemic barriers and police attitudes that dismissed victims.When Kennedy began researching the origins of the rape kit, she expected a straightforward story. What she discovered instead was a buried history of female innovation deliberately erased from public record. In 1970s Chicago, Marty Goddard encountered a system where police manuals explicitly stated "most women who report rapes are lying" and evidence collection was an afterthought. Determined to create change, Goddard developed a standardized system for collecting sexual assault evidence that would give credibility to survivors' accounts through science.Kennedy's research exposes concerning modern issues as well. Despite DNA testing revolutionizing forensics, rape kits remain largely unchanged since the 1970s. With over 1,000 different versions nationwide, inconsistent protocols, invasive questioning, and accessibility barriers continue to plague the system. Perhaps most troubling is the persistent devaluation of sexual assault evidence, evidenced by the hundreds of thousands of untested kits discovered in warehouses nationwide.The most revealing aspect of this history is Goddard's strategic decision to name the kit after police chief Louis Vitullo, knowing that in the male-dominated world of law enforcement, a woman's invention would never be adopted. This sacrifice ensured implementation but cost Goddard her rightful place in history until Kennedy's journalism brought her contributions to light. Now housed in the Smithsonian, the original rape kit represents both a breakthrough and a reminder of how women's contributions are often obscured.

In this episode, Pagan Kennedy, author of "The Secret History of the Rape Kit," reveals the untold story behind the rape kit, a forensic tool that revolutionized sexual assault investigations but whose creator, Marty Goddard, was erased from history. Through meticulous research, Kennedy uncovered how Goddard developed this life-changing evidence collection system in 1970s Chicago while facing systemic barriers and police attitudes that dismissed victims.When Kennedy began researching the origins of the rape kit, she expected a straightforward story. What she discovered instead was a buried history of female innovation deliberately erased from public record. In 1970s Chicago, Marty Goddard encountered a system where police manuals explicitly stated "most women who report rapes are lying" and evidence collection was an afterthought. Determined to create change, Goddard developed a standardized system for collecting sexual assault evidence that would give credibility to survivors' accounts through science.Kennedy's research exposes concerning modern issues as well. Despite DNA testing revolutionizing forensics, rape kits remain largely unchanged since the 1970s. With over 1,000 different versions nationwide, inconsistent protocols, invasive questioning, and accessibility barriers continue to plague the system. Perhaps most troubling is the persistent devaluation of sexual assault evidence, evidenced by the hundreds of thousands of untested kits discovered in warehouses nationwide.The most revealing aspect of this history is Goddard's strategic decision to name the kit after police chief Louis Vitullo, knowing that in the male-dominated world of law enforcement, a woman's invention would never be adopted. This sacrifice ensured implementation but cost Goddard her rightful place in history until Kennedy's journalism brought her contributions to light. Now housed in the Smithsonian, the original rape kit represents both a breakthrough and a reminder of how women's contributions are often obscured.

What happens when your abuser carries a badge and a gun? For victims of officer-involved domestic violence, the journey to safety becomes a dangerous maze with few exits. Bruce Bieber joins us with the heartbreaking story of his daughter Abby – a rising star deputy sheriff who was murdered by her intimate partner, himself a detective in the same sheriff's office. This wasn't a random tragedy but the culmination of systemic failure, as her killer had previously been reported for domestic violence years earlier, only to have the incident swept under the rug. Through tears and determination, Bruce reveals how his quest for answers uncovered layers of institutional protection that prioritized shielding officers over protecting victims. When he discovered that approximately 40% of police families experience domestic abuse – potentially hundreds of thousands of households – he transformed his grief into purpose. The parallels between Abby's case and countless others expose a chilling pattern: documentation disappears, investigations vanish, and perpetrators not only remain employed but often advance in their careers. Questions about the failure of fellow officers to intervene when Abby was killed reveal uncomfortable truths about the "blue wall of silence" that protects abusers in uniform. Bruce is now fighting for legislation requiring Florida's law enforcement agencies to adopt protocols for handling cases when the abuser wears a badge. His urgent message resonates beyond one family's tragedy: if we immediately act when officers commit robbery or deal drugs, why do we still treat domestic violence as a private matter rather than the crime it is? Share this powerful episode with someone who needs to hear it, and join us in breaking the silence around officer-involved domestic violence.

Sexual violence leaves survivors searching for answers, often without a roadmap for what comes next. Cheyenne Wilson knows this firsthand. After her own assault, she desperately sought comprehensive guidance but found only fragmented resources. This experience sparked her creation of "We Are the Evidence: A Handbook for Finding Your Way After Sexual Assault" – the resource she wished had existed during her darkest moments.The stark statistics are sobering. Nearly one in four women experience rape or attempted rape in their lifetime, with rates even higher among women of color and Indigenous communities. When survivors don't have clear information about definitions, resources, and options, confusion compounds trauma. Wilson's groundbreaking handbook addresses this critical need, offering clarity on everything from terminology to evidence collection to navigating the justice system.Throughout our conversation, Wilson illuminates the power of language in a survivor's healing journey. Many people struggle with questions like "I didn't say no, was it still rape?" or "I didn't fight back, was it still assault?" By addressing these questions head-on and dispelling common myths, she empowers survivors to name their experiences. The handbook also distinguishes between community advocates (who provide confidential support) and victim witness advocates (who work with prosecution) – a crucial distinction many survivors don't understand.What truly sets "We Are the Evidence" apart is its trauma-informed approach. The book incorporates mindful check-ins, diverse survivor perspectives, and acknowledgment that each healing journey looks different. Wilson emphasizes that survivors have choices at every step – from evidence collection to reporting to exploring alternatives like restorative justice. Most importantly, she reminds us that healing isn't linear and there's no single "right way" to recover from sexual violence.Whether you're a survivor seeking guidance, a loved one wanting to provide support, or someone working in advocacy or law enforcement, this resource offers invaluable insights into the complex aftermath of sexual violence.

What happens when those who save others need saving themselves? Behind the badge, helmet, or uniform lies a harsh reality few civilians understand: our first responders are suffering in silence.Dr. Heather Twedell (Dr. T), forensic psychologist and founder of F1RST, pulls back the curtain on the devastating toll that repeated trauma takes on police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and dispatchers. With a brother and father in law enforcement, she combines professional expertise with personal understanding to revolutionize how we approach first responder wellness.The statistics are alarming—first responders experience significantly higher rates of suicide, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and divorce than the general population. But Dr. T explains why this happens through a fascinating exploration of how trauma physically changes the brain and body. That smell at a restaurant that suddenly triggers a police officer's fight-or-flight response? That's the brain's danger-detection system at work, months after a traumatic call.Most compelling is Dr. T's innovative approach to healing. F1RST brings together therapists, nutritionists, physical therapists, and even horses to build resilience in our community protectors. The equine therapy program provides immediate feedback on emotional regulation that many participants say brings more awareness than years of traditional therapy.Perhaps most powerful is Dr. T's insight into how first responder trauma affects entire families through "nervous system synchronization"—where a spouse or child unconsciously absorbs the stress and anxiety the first responder brings home. By including families in the healing process, F1RST addresses the ripple effects of trauma that conventional programs miss.Want to support the first responders in your life or community? Listen now to understand what they're experiencing and discover practical ways to help those who've dedicated their lives to helping others.

What does safety really mean when you're trapped in an abusive relationship? For forty years, Genesis Women's Shelter & Support has been answering this question through action, evolving from a seven-room emergency shelter into a comprehensive support system that recognizes both physical and emotional dimensions of safety.In this revealing conversation, Genesis CEO Jan Langbein and Chief Residential Officer Jordyn Lawson take us through the history of domestic violence services in America—a journey that began long before shelter doors opened, tracing back to women's suffrage and the fight against laws that once permitted husbands to beat their wives legally. They share how Genesis has continuously adapted to meet survivor needs, from adding transitional housing to legal services to innovative occupational therapy for traumatized children.The most dangerous misconception about domestic violence? That victims are safe once they leave. In reality, 75% of women murdered by partners are killed after separation. This stark reality explains why "just leaving" isn't simple, especially when abusers use isolation, financial control, and threats as weapons. Lawson expertly dismantles our understanding of abuse, explaining how controlling behaviors combined with any physical aggression represent the highest risk for homicide, while strangulation increases murder risk elevenfold.Perhaps most importantly, Langbein and Lawson offer practical guidance for everyone who suspects someone might be suffering. "Trust your gut," they urge, explaining that even when victims deny abuse initially, simply knowing someone cares enough to ask can become a lifeline. Whether you're concerned about someone you know or working in a position to help survivors, this episode provides the knowledge to recognize warning signs that media sensationalism often obscures.Ready to be part of the solution? Genesis offers 24/7 support at 214-946-HELP. Because as this episode reminds us: abuse won't stop until abusers stop abusing—but we can all help create pathways to safety.

The digital world has created a dangerous new frontier for abuse that goes far beyond basic stalking or harassment. AI technology now enables perpetrators to manufacture entirely false realities, trapping victims in a matrix of manipulation where even their own experiences can be called into question.Sloan Thompson and Dr. Saed Hill from End Technology-Enabled Abuse (ENDTab) join us to explore how AI applications have evolved from productivity tools into weapons of control and vehicles for deeply problematic relationship dynamics. The statistics they share are alarming: over 1 billion chatbot downloads worldwide in less than two years, with millions of users forming emotional and sexual relationships with AI companions programmed to validate their every desire.The conversation reveals how these technologies exploit fundamental human needs for connection while reinforcing harmful gender stereotypes. AI boyfriends marketed to young women and girls feature characters that are jealous, possessive, and manipulative—with one popular "abusive boyfriend" character accumulating over 64 million interactions. Meanwhile, AI girlfriend apps targeting men promise partners who "never fight back" and always validate, creating unrealistic expectations that real relationships can never satisfy.Most disturbing are the concrete ways abusers can weaponize AI: generating deepfake sexual content, fabricating false evidence for legal proceedings, creating convincing impersonations of real people, and accessing victims' private AI interactions to gather sensitive information. These tools don't just enable traditional forms of abuse—they fundamentally alter how abuse operates by attacking the victim's perception of reality itself.The experts emphasize that while technology evolves rapidly, the underlying patterns of abuse remain consistent. Our challenge is to develop prevention frameworks that address both the technological innovations and the human vulnerabilities they exploit. 

Discover the connections between domestic violence and traumatic brain injury in this eye-opening episode. Our guest, Dr. María Garay-Serratos , a leading expert in domestic violence and traumatic brain injury, shares her powerful personal story and professional insights. Dr. Garay-Serratos  reveals the often overlooked traumatic brain injuries resulting from violence in the home, advocating for better recognition, screening, and treatment of these issues within healthcare systems. Our discussion will unravel the shocking truths behind the silent epidemic of domestic violence, the overwhelming statistics regarding reported crimes, and the long-term health implications for survivors. Listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of the urgency surrounding this topic and hear firsthand stories that highlight the necessity of systemic change. Join us in imparting hope, healing, and awareness as we explore the resources available for those affected by domestic violence and advocate for a future where everyone's health and safety are prioritized. 

Discover the alarming truth about teen dating violence with Katie Blackburn, executive director of Jana's Campaign, as she shares powerful insights and strategies to combat this pervasive issue. Through the tragic story of Jana Mackey, whose advocacy ignited a movement, Katie outlines how education is key to preventing relationship violence among teens. Get ready to learn how understanding and recognizing early warning signs can empower young people to foster healthy, respectful relationships.Explore the often-hidden world of emotional abuse in teen relationships, where manipulation and love bombing are more than just buzzwords—they're dangerous patterns that can have lasting impacts. Our conversation sheds light on how early education around consent, boundaries, and healthy communication can disrupt the generational cycle of violence. Katie passionately emphasizes the importance of teaching teens to recognize and reject these harmful behaviors before they can take root.Technology plays a dual role in teen relationships, offering both connection and potential for harm. Hear how social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok influence teens' interactions, sometimes facilitating abuse through blurred boundaries and cyberbullying. We dive into the critical role adults must play in shaping safe environments and policies, fostering open dialogues about digital safety and respectful relationships. Tune in to understand how comprehensive education and community involvement are crucial in breaking the silence and building a culture that stands firmly against abuse.

This episode tackles the challenges faced by self-represented litigants in domestic violence cases and how courts can ensure procedural justice and safety for victims. Three legal experts join the conversation to discuss the role of technology and training in improving legal responses and empowering survivors.The content of this episode is for informational purposes and should not be considered legal advice.The Honorable Lora Livingston, the Honorable Mary Madden, and Attorney Darren Mitchell guide us through the intricacies of supporting self-represented litigants, shedding light on the critical responsibilities of judicial officers. Discover how separating victims from perpetrators, addressing intimidation, and maintaining a safe court environment can empower those seeking justice without legal representation. Our discussion also ventures into the transformative effects of remote court proceedings, a shift hastened by the pandemic. Learn how this transition has eased logistical burdens, enhanced safety, boosted participation in domestic violence cases, and how virtual hearings continue to shape the future of justice access, offering a dignified platform for victims and ensuring procedural fairness remains intact.Furthermore, we unravel the delicate balance between providing legal information and advice, especially for non-lawyer advocates assisting victims. Through examples and practical tips, we explore the permissible roles of advocates while underscoring the importance of collaboration with legal services. This episode is a treasure trove of strategies and insights aimed at improving court support for domestic violence survivors, ensuring they are equipped with the tools necessary to navigate their cases effectively.You might want to take notes as you listen! Key resources from this episode include:lawhelp.orgwomenslaw.orgncjfcj.orgEpisode highlights:• Discussing the statistics of violence against women• Exploring the importance of procedural justice• Highlighting judges' roles with self-represented litigants• Examining courtroom management considerations for safety• Learning about technology's role in enhancing access to justice• Understanding the benefits of trained advocates for victims• Sharing insights on systemic changes to support litigants• Providing resources for further information and assistance

Every January, we're reminded of the chilling reality of stalking and its devastating repercussions. This month, we echo the courage of Debbie Riddle, who transformed her grief into advocacy after the murder of her sister Peggy by a stalker. Together with Jennifer Landhuis from the Stalking Prevention Awareness and Resource Center (SPARC), we tackle the difficult nuances of stalking, from the subtle signs to the overt, with a critical eye on how law enforcement and the public acknowledge and respond to such danger. Their insights expose the gaps in our system and ignite a vital discussion on the need for consistent intervention against this crime.The narrative of Peggy's ordeal is both heartbreaking and a powerful catalyst for change. Debbie's relentless pursuit to raise stalking awareness has not only memorialized her sister but has also pioneered educational reforms. We reflect on the systemic failures that had dire consequences and highlight the importance of initiatives like Stalking Awareness Month. By examining Debbie's journey and Jennifer's expertise, the episode underlines the crucial role of education and the immediate need for law enforcement to develop a deeper understanding and more effective protocols when facing stalking cases.As we wrap up this intense episode, we underscore the importance of community response and SPARC's role in providing resources to better address stalking cases. We delve into the trainings offered to criminal justice agencies, the alarming prevalence of stalking, and the available support systems on college campuses. This session is not just a tribute to Peggy but a call to action for everyone to participate in the national day of action against stalking, to bring awareness and to restore a sense of safety for those affected.

In the time that it takes to read this episode overview, at least one person in the United States of America will be sexually assaulted. The victim will likely be a woman who could be as young as 12 years old.* Sexual violence against women has elevated to a crisis that we can no longer ignore, live with, or deny. It is not only the crisis of our time, but also a matter of time before yet another life is absorbed into the statistical reminder that women are not safe from sexual predators at home, while on vacation, maybe not anywhere at all. Sexual violence against women remains the weapon of choice for intimate partners, serial offenders, military invasions, and many others who believe it is their right to victimize women through sexual dominance. Crimes of rape and sexual assault require more than just our full attention, they require an understanding of the core issues related to gender-based violence and the application of strategies that both hold offenders accountable and offer justice to survivors.To address this crisis, this episode explores the current state of violence against women as well as proven strategies to advance the investigation, prosecution, and prevention of the crimes of rape and sexual assault. Our guest, retired chief of police Tom Tremblay, has dedicated his entire career to improving law enforcement responses to the crimes of rape and sexual assault by developing trauma-informed teams of professionals who pursue justice for survivors. Now a world-renown expert in these investigations, he works as an advisor and trainer for police, prosecutors, advocates, higher education, the military, and the government/private sector. Our conversation reveals the current state of sexual violence against women in this country, including the startling statistics of its prevalence, its root causes, and solutions for investigation, pursuing justice, and prevention.  *According to RAINN, every 68 seconds an American is sexually assaulted and the vast majority of victims are female aged 12-34. RAINN.org

Brace yourself for a candid conversation about the urgent and often hidden issues of violence and digital abuse against women. Dani Pinter, Senior Legal Counsel for the National Center on Sexual Exploitation, joins us to pull back the curtain on the alarming reality of non-consensual sexual exploitation online. We confront shocking statistics and explore the staggering impact of these crimes on victims, as Dani shares insights into the history and mission of her organization to combat these deeply entrenched societal problems.Our discussion takes a hard look at image-based sexual abuse and the complex landscape of legal accountability surrounding platforms like Backpage and Pornhub. We draw parallels between past legal actions against industries like big tobacco and current efforts to hold websites responsible for enabling exploitation. The conversation highlights the alarming rise of voyeuristic content and fake sexual images created by AI, as we unravel the challenges of curbing these offenses in the digital age and the significant implications for privacy and consent.Navigating the murky waters of online accountability, we tackle the barriers victims face as they seek justice and content removal. The conversation zeroes in on Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, emphasizing the urgent need for legal reform to empower victims and hold tech companies accountable. We also spotlight the progress made in addressing image-based sexual abuse, including amendments to the Violence Against Women Act, marking key steps toward more robust legal protections. Join us as we chart a path forward in advocating for victims and challenging societal norms and institutional practices.

Detective Brandon Wootan joins us to uncover the transformative impact of Domestic Violence High-Risk Teams in preventing intimate partner homicides. Drawing from his extensive law enforcement background, Detective Wootan shares the approach that has dramatically reduced fatalities in his jurisdiction, where a staggering 40% of homicides are linked to domestic violence. Learn how these multidisciplinary teams bridge the gap between law enforcement, prosecutors, and service providers, creating a united front against domestic violence and prioritizing long-term support for survivors, especially within the Latinx community.From this discussion listeners will grasp the core components of these high-risk teams—early identification, improved offender monitoring, and a collaborative response—that make them a powerful force in combating domestic violence. Drawing from the groundbreaking work of experts like Dr. Jacquelyn Campbell and the pioneering efforts of the Geiger Institute, we discover how evidence-based risk assessments play a pivotal role in identifying potentially lethal situations. You will also learn about the seamless collaboration that has not only revolutionized the judicial process but also provided a lifeline for at-risk individuals.We also discuss Light the Way Consulting, a project inspired by Detective Wootan's personal experiences that is dedicated to helping agencies nationwide establish their own high-risk teams. We explore how this initiative aims to foster societal change by reshaping how domestic violence is perceived and handled and paves the way for safer communities and a more supportive environment for survivors.