April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month and every April we come together to reaffirm our commitment to this serious issue and remind victims that help is just a call away. This year we may not be participating in a news conference about this initiative, but we want citizens to know efforts continue throughout the city.
 
Education is the key to recognizing the indicators of abuse and to know how to report this behavior should we suspect it.
 
Sexual abuse can take many forms including: abuse by a family member, or acquaintance; abuse at an institution; child pornography; commercial sexual exploitation; and trafficking for sex purposes.

In addition, it is also important to talk with children about personal boundaries and inappropriate behaviors. Youth are particularly vulnerable for many reasons including fear, peer pressure, inexperience and the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.
 
Remember if someone discloses abuse, your reaction and response will make a large impact on how they feel about coming forward. Acknowledge their resilience and bravery, and let them know a support system is in place.
 
The members of the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office support and encourage victims of sexual crimes to come forward and report the crime to police by calling 904.630.0500. If this is an emergency please call 9-1-1 (TTY Services Available). If you have a question about sexual abuse and would like to speak directly with a Special Assault detective please call 904.630.2168.