Expert discusses vexing issues in sexual assault investigations

  • Published
  • By Ryan Stark
  • Nucleus writer
KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  Kirtland's Sexual Assault and Prevention Awareness Month concluded at Base Theater on Thursday with a visit from a nationally recognized expert in the field.

David Lisak -- a clinical psychologist and University of Massachusetts professor with extensive involvement in sexual assault investigations -- led a question-and-answer session with more than 100 Airmen and civilians.

How sexual predators look for vulnerabilities, how abuse as a child makes adults more vulnerable, the role alcohol plays in assault cases and signs that someone may be an abuser, among many topics, were discussed.

Lisak has worked on cases with the Air Force Office of Special Investigations, the Army Criminal Investigation Command and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service.

Allegations of sexual assault are difficult for anyone deal with, sometimes even for those that have nothing to do with the allegations.

"For Airmen, they shouldn't make assumptions either way about a case," Lisak said. "Everyone is innocent until proven guilty, and that includes both the accused and the victim."

Lisak gave examples of widely publicized, nonmilitary sexual assault cases where alcohol played a role. One is from Panama City, Fla., and another involves a high-school football team member in Ohio. Both were caught on video.

Problems with drinking and sexual activity often start in high school and lead to problems for military members and university students, he said.

"These ideas about alcohol and sexuality are so pervasive in high school," he said.

Pamela Reeves, Kirtland's sexual assault response coordinator, said she bringing Lisak to Kirtland for the discussion was of great value for the Airmen who attended.

"There's a lot of speculation when it comes to issues surrounding sexual assault," she said. "There are so many questions about victims, perpetrators and their behavior. Dr. Lisak is an expert on offenders and he can help sort through the misinformation that's out there."

The SARC office is in room D19 of the 377th Air Base Wing headquarters, Building 20604. The SARC's hotline, 846-SARC (7272), is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Those interested in volunteering as advocates can contact Reeves at 846-6297.