HAWC’s Position on HPD’s Failure to Investigate Sexual Assaults

A recent Houston Police Department (HPD) internal investigation uncovered 4,017 sexual assault cases were suspended in Houston due to “lack of personnel” dating back to 2016. The Houston Area Women’s Center (HAWC) strongly agrees with HPD Chief Finner’s statement that this is “unacceptable”, “should never have happened”, and “sexual assaults are some of the most traumatic crimes for victims and their families.” Though disturbing, we are encouraged to hear that Chief Finner is recognizing the severity of this failure, immediately responding, and allocating resources towards an improved system.

Survivors will continue to pay a high price when there are not clear practices on investigating and supporting sexual assault survivors. For a survivor to find the courage to come forward and report their attack, and then to wait and watch as their case gets suspended can add immeasurable trauma. Across the country, law enforcement systems are put in place to respond and investigate violent crimes, yet we are experiencing system failure in the fourth largest city in the nation.

“HAWC has been at the forefront of supporting and advocating on behalf of survivors for more than 46 years. When survivors make the difficult decision to come forward and report a sexual assault, their cases should be prioritized and investigated fully. Survivors deserve protection of their rights and well-being,” HAWC Deputy CEO Sonia Corrales says.

As Houston’s designated Rape Crisis Center, HAWC has spoken out for decades about sexual assault survivors being blamed and disbelieved. There are support services for survivors whether they decide to report to law enforcement or not. HAWC sexual assault services include a free, 24/7 hotline, chat services, hospital accompaniment and advocacy, counseling and legal services, specialized care for youth and trafficking survivors, and dating violence prevention. It is important to understand that 8 out of 10 times a sexual assault is by someone known to the victim. Historically survivors have had negative experiences when reporting to law enforcement. This issue extends far beyond Houston and is a common issue nationally.

“Houstonians, we hope that you share in our concern and help us sound the alarm together,” HAWC President and CEO Emilee Whitehurst said. “Believe survivors. Support and donate to advocacy organizations like HAWC and amplify our effort as we work at the highest levels to improve what happens when a sexual assault survivor comes forward. Stand up for survivors when you hear their story.”

HPD is an active member on the Harris County Sexual Assault Response Team, for which HAWC serves as presiding officer. Survivors are encouraged to call the HAWC Sexual Assault Hotline or LiveChat for assistance at 713-528-7273 or visit www.hawc.org or www.hawc.org/sexual-assault for more information.