.png)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NOVEMBER 17, 2021
Sexual Assault Prevention Must Continue To Be A Top Priority
LOUDOUN COUNTY, VA — In Loudoun County Court today, a teenager accused of sexual assault in two high-profile cases pleaded no contest to sexually assaulting a classmate at Broad Run High School. Equality Loudoun stands with Loudoun County survivors of sexual assault, many of whom are members of the LGBTQ+ community, and applauds the courts for holding the responsible party accountable.
Despite multiple source confirming the student involved was not transgender or genderfluid, it has been disheartening to see misinformation being used to perpetuate politically-motivated misinformation campaigns. At this time, there is no evidence that a transgender student has ever committed a sexual assault or that a cisgender student has used transgender policies to commit a sexual crime. Additionally, there is no direct or assumed correlation made between the student’s (alleged) gender identity, regardless, and the act of committng a sexual assault. However, as many as 66% of transgender individuals reported being victims of sexual assault often coupled with physical assault or violence. Meanwhile, 36% of transgender teenagers with restricted bathroom access have reported being the victims of sexual assault.
Moving forward, we implore both the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office and Loudoun County Public Schools to coordinate and implement policy changes that coordinate the responsibilities to prevent a student from being able to reenter school under such circumstances. The safety of all students should be a top priority for all groups. With sentencing to occur in mid-December, we are hopeful that justice will be served.
Our organization stands firmly against sexual assault and violence in all cases. If you are a survivor of sexual assault and would like informaton, services, or support, please contact LAWS, Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services at 703-777-6552 or www.lcsj.org.
Founded in 2003, Equality Loudoun (EQLOCO) is Loudoun’s largest nonprofit organization fighting to promote, protect, and defend LGBTQ+ equality in Loudoun County.
Founded in 2003, Equality Loudoun (EQLOCO) is Loudoun’s largest nonprofit organization fighting to promote, protect, and defend LGBTQ+ equality in Loudoun County.
###