Finally, it seems, the world is beginning to take notice of the epidemic of rape and sexual assault on American college campuses. Shockingly, a recent federal report announced that 1 in 5 female college students will be raped or sexually assaulted on campus. All too often, victims have found themselves betrayed by university administrators that discourage them from proceeding with their complaints or reporting the assaults to local law enforcement. Many other victims are horrified to see their attackers continuing to walk freely on campus, as administrators drag their feet on investigating complaints or proceeding with disciplinary hearings.
In response, legislators have called for laws requiring universities to report complaints to local law enforcement, increased federal funding to investigate the issues inherent in the university system, and for the convening of expert panels to issue recommendations. Many courageous victims have filed Title IX complaints with the Department of Education in the hopes of spurring reforms on their campuses, as well. Title IX not only applies to college athletics, but also directs universities to protect victims of rape and sexual assault, and we believe that it can be a victim’s best avenue for getting the justice they deserve.
As litigators, we strongly believe that victims deserve to be compensated. After all, the effects of a sexual assault are devastating and can haunt victims for the rest of their lives. Moreover, we firmly believe that the best way to force change in institutions is to punish them monetarily for failing to make the changes that they are required to make.
The Law Office of Matthew Galluzzo principal Matthew Galluzzo is a civil rights lawyer and former sex crimes prosecutor in the world-famous Sex Crimes Unit of the Manhattan D.A.’s Office. His opinion on rape and sexual assault investigations has been sought and published by the New York Times, Associated Press, and Reuters, among other news media sources. He has previously worked as a consultant to the South African government, whereby he helped develop new training techniques for prosecutors and law enforcement officers involved in rape and sexual assault investigations.
If you were the victim of a sexual assault on a university campus, you should strongly consider arranging for a consultation with Matthew Galluzzo. He will gladly discuss your options with you and ask questions about how you can best get justice for yourself and/or help prevent others from suffering the same trauma.