Sexual Abuse: Common Abusers and What to Look For

According to the California Coalition Against Sexual Assault, sexual violence survivors make up about 8.6 million people in the state. For many years, the experience of abuse and assault left women with the unfortunate aftermath and uncertainty of their rights.

Today, we see many instances of sexual abuse, and there are numerous legal options available thanks to California’s new AB 218, which allows victims of sexual assault additional time to pursue justice. Part of going through the legal system means knowing who is accountable for the sexual assault and signs to look for to identify it exists.

Below, we’ll help you understand who some of the most common abusers in sexual assault cases are, as well as what to look for to prove the heinous act.

Common Guilty Parties in Sexual Assault Cases

While acts of sexual assault are criminal, you may also pursue a civil action for the pain and suffering you endure. However, you should recognize the common abusers and where many acts of sexual assault occur to understand better what rights you have.

Daycare Workers

It’s challenging even to consider, but many children are vulnerable in daycares. It’s the daycare owner’s responsibility to screen all employees to ensure they are not only qualified to care for children, but also determine if they have any history of abuse.

In a daycare facility, there are specific signs you want to look for to indicate if sexual assault occurs. Look for behavioral issues, such as children shying away from certain workers, or isolation. Many children don’t know how to speak about their situation; instead, their actions can denote potential issues.

Foster Home Administrators

In foster homes, many of the children are without family. For those who take advantage of these children, they often use manipulation and fear tactics, telling children that nobody is there for them or will believe them. It’s how many try to sweep this situation under the rug.

The California AB 218 allows survivors up until the age of 40 to file legal action. If a foster child grows up in the system, they can still take legal action after adulthood or within 5 years following the discovery of their abuse.

Nursing Home Workers

Nursing homes house countless elderly residents, many of whom are there with no family and no resources. It’s horrific to think that a worker can take advantage of the elderly who are in a vulnerable state, but it does happen.

You can recognize sexual assault in a nursing home if your loved one is distant, avoiding eye contact, isolating him or herself, or purposely avoiding specific staff members.

Hotel Owners

It’s up to a hotel owner and staff to keep you safe as a visitor. When the hotel has negligent security, and a sexual assault occurs on the hotel premises, the owner is liable for any damages you may sustain. It’s vital to show that the hotel took no action to safeguard the guests, including you, from potential harm.

Employers

You may rely on your employer to continue paying you for your job, but there are times when these employers use their position of power for potential harm. Sexual advances are more common than you may think in the workplace, backed by promises of a promotion or raise.

An employer may threaten to fire you for failing to accept these unwanted advances, or if you threaten to report them. Keep in mind: you have rights under California wrongful termination laws that protect you from these types of situations.

Signs to Look For

Survivors of sexual assault often display some of the same signs. If you believe a loved one is a survivor, be sure to look for these potential indicators:

• Depression and constant mood changes
• Isolation and avoiding conflict
• Low self-esteem and confidence
• Problems with intimacy

At Crane Flores, LLP, our Oxnard sexual assault lawyers are ready to help you move forward. We know how difficult it can be to speak out against an abuser, but remember that you have someone on your side to safeguard you throughout the process.