Statement from RAINN's president and founder, Scott Berkowitz, on the Freeh Report Findings
The results of Louis Freeh's investigation are stunning. It is shocking that the disregard for the children who were victimized was so widespread, and the systemic failure so deep. Beyond whatever changes happen at Penn State as a result of this report, the leaders of every school in America need to take note today. They need to make sure that everyone knows that the safety of kids is always the highest priority, regardless of the potential embarrassment to the school. There are only two appropriate responses to a child being sexually assaulted: first, you need to immediately notify law enforcement, and second, you need to ensure that the child gets the help he or she needs to recover from the attack.
— Scott Berkowitz, president and founder of RAINN (The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)
About RAINN
RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) is the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization and was named one of “America’s 100 Best Charities” by Worth magazine. RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotlines (800.656.HOPE and online.rainn.org) in partnership with more than 1,000 local rape crisis centers across the country and operates the DoD Safe Helpline for the Department of Defense. The hotlines have helped more than 1.7 million people since 1994. RAINN also carries out programs to prevent sexual violence, help victims and ensure that rapists are brought to justice. For more information about RAINN, please visit rainn.org.