• 03
  • September
    2010

A few weeks ago, this blog discussed the substantial rise in the number of sexual assaults in Dallas this year and the Dallas Police Department's effort to combat this growing problem.

(Please see "Dallas PD Dealing with Sharp Increase in Sexual Assaults" for more information.")

On Wednesday, officials from the police department and city leaders came together at a press conference to announce the official launch of the city's sexual assault public awareness campaign.

The new program is specifically designed to combat sexual assault via increased police presence/patrols in areas with a higher rate of sexual assault, including bars, nightclubs and entertainment districts. In addition, the program calls for the distribution of both prevention tips and other valuable information at community meetings and on the internet. 

"In our continuing effort to make Dallas the safest city in the country, we as a community must work together to reduce the number of sexual assaults committed against unwilling victims," said city council member Delia Jasso.

To date, there have been 377 reported sexual assaults in the city of Dallas. At the same time last year, there were 316 reported sexual assaults.

The prevailing theory of law enforcement officials is that the majority of these sexual assaults/rapes involve two common factors: alcohol and people who are already acquainted with one another (i.e., dates, social outings with friends).

"Keep in mind, potential predators, that silence does not mean sexual consent. An intoxicated or unconscious person cannot give consent," said Jasso.

The large number of reported sexual assaults is surprising given the steady decline over the last few years.

• In 2006, there were 665 reported sexual assaults
• In 2007, there were 511 reported sexual assaults
• In 2008, there were 499 reported sexual assaults
• In 2009, there were 485 reported sexual assaults

Stay tuned for more from our Dallas criminal defense blog ... 

Related Resources:
  
• Dallas Kicks Off Sexual Assault Awareness Campaign (Dallas Morning News)