Justice after trauma? Race, red tape keep sexual assault victims from compensation
Phys.org
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A new University of Michigan study reveals significant challenges faced by adult sexual assault survivors seeking compensation due to bureaucratic hurdles and racial disparities. The primary barrier identified is the absence of police verification of a crime, which accounts for 34.4% of rejected claims—equivalent to roughly eight out of every 100 applicants being turned down. This systemic issue not only deepens inequities in the justice system but also compounds trauma for survivors already navigating a complex and often unresponsive process.
The study highlights how racial and economic factors further marginalize marginalized communities, particularly Black survivors and low-income individuals. These groups face heightened obstacles in securing police verification, often due to systemic biases within law enforcement and societal barriers that prevent reporting or make cases harder to pursue. This disparity underscores the intersection of race, class, and gender in perpetuating cycles of injustice for sexual assault victims.
The findings are significant for readers interested in science and public health, as they shed light on how systemic inequities impact survivors' access to resources and support. By addressing these barriers, policymakers can work toward creating more equitable systems that prioritize healing and justice for all survivors. The study also emphasizes the need for reforms in victim compensation programs to better align with the realities faced by marginalized communities.
Ultimately, this research calls attention to the broader societal implications of sexual violence and the importance of fostering trust between survivor populations and law enforcement. By understanding these systemic challenges, stakeholders can advocate for policies that reduce barriers to compensation and support survivors in their pursuit of justice.
Verticals
sciencephysics
Originally published on Phys.org on 2/20/2026