Sexual Abuse

We report on sexual abuse cases affecting Louisiana communities and survivors nationwide. Coverage includes legal actions, legislative developments, and resources for survivors and prevention.

Victims of Sexual Assault at Merchant Marine Academy Stayed Silent Due to Culture of Fear

The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) is facing scrutiny after cadets say they were afraid to speak out after fellow crew members sexually assaulted or harassed them.

By Jed Cain

/ 3 Mar 2022

How to Report Sexual Assault While Working Offshore

A brief pause of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy’s Sea Year training program ended late last month after the U.S. Dept of Transportation and Maritime Administration released a slew of updated sexual abuse policies.

By Jed Cain

/ 6 Jan 2022

Offshore oil field area viewed with FPSO ship and drilling rig on platform

New Procedures for How Louisiana Colleges Handle Sexual Misconduct

Louisiana colleges and universities are now held to a higher standard for reporting sexual misconduct. Senate Bill 230 was approved by the state legislature and signed by Gov. John Bel Edwards earlier this year.

By Jed Cain

/ 8 Dec 2021

Upset female victim of abuse or harassment sitting on stairs outdoors with backbag

New Law Gives Louisiana Child Sex Abuse Victims More Time To Seek Justice

Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards signed into law a bill that will give victims of childhood sexual abuse by clergy members and others much more power to seek justice.

By Soren E. Gisleson

/ 15 Jun 2021

A nice warm spring evening in Baton Rouge at Louisiana State Capitol

Is There Any Way to Move Forward from Priest Abuse Scandals?

The Roman Catholic Church has faced sexual abuse scandals for decades, and not just in the U.S. The damage to the religious institution as a whole, including significant reputation issues, loss of support among members, and financial woes, is a tough position for any organization.

By Soren E. Gisleson

/ 23 Feb 2021

Wooden rosary with cross on stone with light shining upon it