As an Assistant Marshall County Attorney whose docket focuses on sexually motivated crimes and domestic violence, I see firsthand the devastating impact sexual assaults have on victims and our community. Therefore, I am proud to stand with survivors of these crimes every April, in support of Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

Sexual Assault Awareness Month is an important reminder of what happens behind closed doors. Not only is the victim’s life altered in profound ways, but that victim’s family, friends, and the community suffer collateral damages. Victims may face economic strain or social trauma among their peer groups. Family members may experience emotional distress or feelings of guilt. Community helpers, law enforcement, and medical help can also suffer operational strain from these stressful investigations. Bringing this conversation out in the open recognizes the courage of survivors and encourages others to report what they have suffered.

We are fortunate to have strong partnerships with organizations in the community to assist victims, including ACCESS (Assault Care Center Extending Shelter & Support) and MPACT (Marshalltown Police and Community Team). I encourage victims to reach out to these agencies for support during all stages of the criminal process. Importantly, these groups also offer support and services for victims who have yet to report their abuse to law enforcement. Community support of these organizations is vital and appreciated. As a prosecutor, I am grateful that the brave reporters of abuse have these partners standing in their corner.

The Marshall County Attorney’s Office remains committed to seeking justice for victims, holding offenders accountable, and protecting this community. To that end, the a Proclamation of Aprils as Sexual Assault Awareness Month was prepared by our office and read at the April 8th Marshall County Board of Supervisors Meeting. Key points included the following facts:

• Sexual violence can be any sexual activity when consent is not obtained or freely given. Sexual violence can occur in person or online;

• According to the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 26 men experience rape or attempted rape in their lifetime;

• According to the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey, more than 47 percent of women and 23 percent of men have experienced some form of unwanted sexual contact in their lifetime; and

• There is compelling evidence that we can be successful in reducing sexual violence through prevention education, increased awareness, and holding perpetrators who commit acts of sexual violence responsible for their actions.

As Sexual Assault Awareness Month comes to a close, the Marshall County Attorney’s office is grateful for this community’s support of the work we do in prosecuting these crimes. If you or someone you know has been impacted by sexual assault, please do not hesitate to contact law enforcement. You may also call the Sexual Abuse Crisis Line at 800-203-3488.

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Autumn Canny is an assistant Marshall County attorney.