SALT LAKE CITY — Survivors of child sexual abuse came together at the State Capitol Monday, calling for changes to Utah’s constitution.
This comes almost two weeks after the Utah Supreme Court decision involving the statute of limitations in child sex abuse cases.
For 53 year old Jamie Magle, the scars of what happened to her in here childhood created PTSD in her adult life.
“As a small child, I couldn’t speak up,” said Magle. “I was outweighed by 100 pounds by the person who was molesting me.”
Time heals, but Magle said it has not taken away the paralyzing affects of sexual abuse.
“Just because you’re at the magical age of 18 doesn’t mean you can speak up,” said Magle.
With the support of state Rep. Angela Romero, Magle and other women are pushing for reform in Utah’s constitution.
The Utah Supreme Court decided earlier this month that they could not apply a law extending the statute of limitations and that it could not be applied retroactively.
The case in question was a lawsuit filed by Terry Mitchell against a retired federal court judge.
Mitchell said former Judge Richard Roberts abused her when she was a 16 year old witness in a murder case.
“No one has ever been held accountable for the victim blaming I have been through,” said Mitchell.
The women hope these changes to the system will help others who can’t raise their own voices.
