Victims Of Sexual Assault By Student-Athletes Often Discouraged From Reporting, Says Attorney

Attorney Karen Truszkowski says the women she represents who are the victims of sexual assault by student-athletes are often discouraged from reporting what has happened to them. She says that those who do come forward are often retaliated against by their peers, their schools, and their communities. “The victimization after the assault is much worse than the assault itself, and I hear that repeatedly,” says Truszkowski. Criminal defense attorney Brian Watkins says student-athletes can be easy targets for false accusations. He says, “Often we see athletes, they are pretty much convicted on the accusation, and their careers are over before they ever get a chance to defend themselves.” Watch Tuesday’s conclusion of this two-part Dr. Phil, “Athletes Behaving Badly or Targets for False Accusations?” to hear more from these attorneys, plus audience members, former student-athletes, and the survivors of sexual assault perpetrated by student-athletes. Check your local listing for air times. WATCH: Woman Claims University Discouraged Her From Reporting Sexual Assault See more from part one here. TELL DR. PHIL YOUR STORY: Are you involved in a story making headlines?