"False rape allegations hurt true victims"

Article here. Excerpt:

'The argument that false allegations ruin lives, meaning the system is flawed, erodes the support that sexual assault victims need. The law gives victims power for a reason. Without it, victims wouldn’t get needed care. UNL promotes an atmosphere that allows all students, regardless of gender, to feel safe on campus. Police enforce laws that aid the less powerful and prevent tragedies. The most productive step taken to help sexual assault victims is allowing them to report their case to police officials right away. Almost instantly, an officer can be at the scene, and together with law enforcement, the university’s investigation can be underway. While countless sexual assaults still go unreported, the fact that any victim can receive immediate attention after a horrific crime has taken place gives the victim the opportunity to step forward.

The system is undeniably skewed to help the victims, which can lead to unwanted consequences. Since the weekly emails have started, I’ve heard frequent conversations about false reporting of sexual assault. The FBI states that two percent of rape accusations are deemed false, equal to any other violent crime. Some dispute that number because of the murkiness around sexual assault statistics, but the concern is still on students’ minds. A Rolling Stones article titled “A Rape on Campus” detailed the story of a girl who had been raped in a fraternity at the University of Virginia. Her story was later deemed fictional but along the way ruined the reputation, career and life of the accused. The same system which gives victims hope permits deceitful individuals to make untrue accusations.

While false allegations are rare, they hurt everyone trying to prevent sexual assault. Any good work disappears with the excuse that the system is flawed. This excuse isn’t given in attempt to hurt victims, but instead to defend oneself in a situation that harms all parties.

The situation is frightening. After one night together, one person can change the others’ life. Relationships could be defined by a headline over a mug shot. The accused who once cheered for our university on game days may no longer step foot on campus. Years of prison could be faced in criminal charges.

False accusers of crime not only change the lives of their partner, but erode the system which gives victims hope. One false accusation belittles the genuine claims made by others. Previous false claims prevent future victims from speaking out and generate skepticism whenever a new case makes headlines.'