Picture This: Law Enforcement’s Impact on Image-Based Sexual Assault Laws and Victim Experiences

• In Event: Methods for Researching and Responding to Sexual Violence

Abstract

Image-based sexual assault, which is generally described as a form of technology-mediated aggression, encompasses the unauthorized and nonconsensual dissemination of nude or sexual content (e.g., images, videos). Legal responses to these behaviors vary widely, often leaving victims to navigate significant hurdles and exacerbating negative consequences. Unfortunately, the burden of addressing these crimes often falls on the victims rather than other stakeholders. Given this context, this study examines current legislative and judicial discourse surrounding image-based sexual assault laws, aiming to dissect the multifaceted challenges in adjudicating these offenses and the experiences of law enforcement in enforcing relevant legal statutes. Additionally, the study sheds light on victims' experiences navigating the criminal justice system, highlighting their reluctance to seek legal redress due to skepticism about law enforcement's response and concerns about inadequate punishments for offenders. These issues underscore the pervasive nature of image-based sexual assault and the complexities in addressing such behaviors. The study argues for comprehensive reform in image-based sexual assault laws and emphasizes the importance of enhancing law enforcement strategies to better address and prevent these crimes.

Authors

• Jennifer Ayerza, George Mason University

• Jin R. Lee, George Mason University