Additional Coverage:
- Katie Thurston Says ‘The Justice System Failed Me’ After Rape: ‘I Did Everything I Should Have’ (newsbreak.com)
Katie Thurston, known for her role as the leading lady on “The Bachelorette,” has publicly opened up about a devastating legal defeat in a lawsuit against the man she accuses of raping her. In a poignant declaration, Thurston shared with Us Weekly on June 29, she discussed the support she’s received throughout the ordeal over the last seven months and how she intends to transform her anguish into advocacy, aiming to provide hope and assistance to other sexual assault survivors.
At the age of 33, Thurston took to Instagram to elaborate on her assault and the subsequent legal challenge. Through a series of educational slides, she conveyed the difficulties faced when reporting her assault, emphasizing the shortcomings of the justice system in supporting victims. The reality TV star expressed her determination to not let this setback silence her or weaken her resolve in supporting herself and others through similar tribulations.
Kaitlyn Bristowe, a fellow “Bachelorette” alum, voiced her support for Thurston online, acknowledging the significance of sharing such a personal story publicly.
Detailing the immediate aftermath of the assault, Thurston recounted calling 911, leading to police assistance and a visit to a medical center for detailed examinations, all supported by compassionate care from medical professionals and victim advocates. Throughout this process, she was informed, respected, and provided with necessary medical attention without the worry of cost.
Despite diligently following all the steps recommended for assault survivors and armed with extensive evidence, Thurston became yet another example of someone let down by the legal system. She described her rigorous efforts to prove her case, only to be confronted with the harsh reality of criminal justice processes.
Thurston’s experience is a continuation of her advocacy against sexual assault, which she has spoken about publicly in the past, including during her season on “The Bachelorette.” Despite this setback, she remains committed to fighting for change within the justice system and encouraging other survivors to keep pushing forward.
For anyone impacted by sexual assault, help is available through the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).