April 8, 2010
Rainy skies were not enough to dampen the spirits of a local group determine to “rid the night” of violence and sexual predators.
“Taking Back the Night” is a rally, march and vigil aimed at inciting action.
The nationwide even encourages silent victims to come forward.
There were 21 reported rapes in 2009 according to Albemarle County Police. So far this year, only one rape has been reported. Speaker and rape victim Liz Seccuro says, there many more sex crimes that go un-reported.
Seccuro knows what it’s like to be silenced as a victim of a sex crime. She was silent for 20 years before her rapist came forward and confessed.
Seccuro says, Morgan Harrington’s killer will eventually come forward, like her attacker did. “Those people who have information and are hiding it from law enforcement, we will find you. One day it will become too much to bear for them.”
Dan Harrington is connected to these victims. He is a victim himself, often defending his dead daughter. People have accused Morgan on blogs and internet sites of dressing provocatively and drinking, implying she was “asking” for crime to happen.
“She had a T-shirt that covered her, she had a mini-skirt, she had leggings and black boots. The only skin showing was her hands and face,” Harrington says.
But the accusations go beyond the web. Harrington tells CBS19 that certain law enforcement officials have suggested that Morgan was dressed provocatively, which is why she was abducted and killed.
Harrington says, his daughter is blamed, much like other victims of sexual violence are blamed for the crimes committed against them.
No matter how anyone dresses, it is not an open invitation to victimize someone! I never knew Morgan or her family but I continue to follow this story because it has touched my heart. I pray this disgusting and cowardly person who is responsible is found and forced to take responsibility.