New Orleans Police Department Blames Victims

The New Orleans Police Department recently released a statement on "women and safety," that has outrage across the city and furthered the perception that this police department does not get it. They are more interested in blaming the victim than preventing assault. With absurd advice like "don't get into an elevator with a stranger," or "dress comfortably so you can move quickly if you have to," the statement is pure victim-blaming. We have pasted the entire release below.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 23, 2013 New Orleans Police Department Crime Prevention Unit Women and Safety  Violent crime can happen to any woman, anywhere, in any situation. Victims and attackers come from all economic classes and cultural backgrounds. Often, victims know their attackers. Violent crimes can happen any time of the day.  You can help protect yourself by understanding the risk and learning how to reduce them.  Stay out of isolated areas: Avoid little-used stairwells, parking lots and roads. Don’t get into an empty elevator with a stranger. Trust your instincts. If you sense trouble, get away as soon as possible. Show confidence. Walk at a steady pace. Keep your head up. Avoid carry lots of packages. It can make you look defenseless. Practice street smarts. Plan the safest route before you leave. Dress comfortably, so you can move quickly if you have to. Don’t wear headphones. It’s important to stay alert. Vary your biking and jogging route, and bring a friend. If someone follows you, change course and head toward other people. Stand back from the car when giving motorist directions. Take self defense classes. When using public transportation: Wait at busy, well-lit stops. Sit close to the driver. Speak loudly or yell if you feel threatened. Use caution on dates and in relationships. Beware of alcohol and other drugs. They affect judgment. Watch how much your date uses them, too. Don’t leave your drink alone. And don’t drink anything you didn’t get, open or pour yourself. “Date rape drugs” mixed in drinks can leave you at risk. Make your sexual limits firm and clear. Be independent. Don’t let your date make all the decisions. Provide your own transportation. Avoid secluded places.   Know the warning signs of abuse. Watch for behavior and attitudes in your date, partner or friend that signals trouble. For example, he or she may: Show a lack of respect for your feelings or ideas. Want to make all of the decisions. Frequently display anger, mistrust or jealously. Misuse alcohol or use of other drugs. Responding to an attack Only you can decide how to respond, and no one strategy will work every time. But in   general:  Size up the situation. You have several options. Many women will: Scream for help or yell “Fire!” Run away Fight back If you think resisting would put you in more danger, cooperate. Remember that your survival is most important. Do whatever you think is best. If you have been attacked or sexual assaulted: Act quickly. Get to a safe place. Get in contact with a friend, relative or rape crisis center. Go to the hospital. Don’t shower, brush your teeth, douche, comb or clean any part of your body, or change your clothes. This might destroy medical evidence. Tell the police. Remember, an attack is never your fault. Don’t blame yourself. Sergeant L. J. Smith New Orleans Police Department Commander, Crime Prevention Unit 715 S. Broad Avenue, Office # A- 412 New Orleans, LA 70119 (504) 658-5590 – Office Phone Sylbrown@nola.gov - Email