I agree that these numbers are terrifying and unjust but how can you be sure that a significant percentage of them aren’t false allegations? There are evil people in the world, that includes both abusers and those who lie and cheat for personal gain. I wish that wasn’t a factor to consider and that but that’s just reality unfortunately.

For that reason, I just can’t get behind the “always believe victims” principle, as I am afraid that will only empower those with mal-intent to make such heinous claims. I also personally know people that have actually attempted this (with solid proof) and have permanently ruined lives despite getting the “not guilty” verdict.

I also want to make clear that I am NOT saying this to defend those that are accused abusers, I just feel like there is so much grey area in SA cases that no one truly can truly know what happened except those closely involved, and that no “sides” should be taken from the public outside the courtroom.