Foundation for Survivors of Abuse’s Groundwork on Utah House Bill 279 May Assure a Case Against D.C. Judge Richard W. Roberts

FSA Hopes to Achieve Similar Results by Working with Senator Harry Reid in Sponsoring National Legislation

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Utah HB 279, passed in 2016, may prove pivotal in the recent accusations and probable civil trial of D.C. Judge Richard W. Roberts. The Foundation for Survivors of Abuse (FSA) helped lay the groundwork of the bill to extend the statute of limitations for a victim to file a civil case against their perpetrator to 35 years beyond a victim's 18^th birthday. The legislation opened a window for victim Terry Elrod Mitchell to file a recent lawsuit against the former federal prosecutor and federal judge, alleging he sexually abused her during the 1981 Utah trial of serial killer Joseph Paul Franklin.

“The ability for the Judge Richard W. Roberts case to progress is a victory for over 60 million survivors of sexual abuse across this country,” said Deondra Brown, President of FSA and member of the musical group, The 5 Browns.

“As the nation deals with sexual abuse allegations against one of its most respected judges, this law is a representation of the good that can come from protecting victims and allowing them the opportunity to heal and prosecute when they are ready,” said Brown.

Currently, The Foundation for Survivors of Abuse is collaborating on national legislation sponsored by Senator Harry Reid to potentially assist all states in extending the statute of limitations for crimes of sexual abuse. FSA advocates on behalf of the 20% of the US population who are victims of sexual abuse, according to the US Department of Health and Human Services.

“The Foundation for Survivors of Abuse applauds Senator Reid’s bill S.2397,” said Deondra Brown. “The bipartisan passage of this bill is essential in protecting the 1:4 girls and 1:6 boys who are statistically projected to be victims of sex abuse before their 18th birthday, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The foundation is working on similar legislation in the House, and looks forward to continuing to represent victims across the country.”

About

Foundation for Survivors of Abuse is a 501c(3) organization created to raise awareness about sexual abuse and the need for statute of limitations reform for victims. For more information, find us on Facebook and survivingabuse.org.