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Katie Thurston admits she was raped and criticizes the justice system

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Content warning: This article deals with rape and sexual assault. The text does not share explicit experiences. However, if this topic is potentially triggering, readers should click away now..

The Bachelorette own Katie Thurston spoke on June 29 about her experiences as a rape victim. She hoped to be able to help those in need. In a post on Instagram, Katie talked about the support services that were available to her immediately after the attack.

The resources available to Katie as a rape victim

“The justice system fails victims every day. I refuse to feel defeated by the strength I needed to stand up for myself. I hope my experience helps others feel the strength and support they need. While I’m not ready to share my story yet, I want to share the valuable resources that saved my life.”

“I called 911 to report my rape. They sent an officer to take my statement and then drove me to a special medical center where a SART exam was performed. I had two women with me. One was the nurse and the other was my lawyer.” Katie described these women as kind, caring and patient. “I felt like a little lost child who was vulnerable and scared.”

Katie said these women explained to her what would happen to her and gave her the opportunity to “refuse or change her mind at any time.” She elaborated on the medical care she was offered, including a blood test and Plan B. “All of this was done at no cost to me, whether I had insurance or not.”

Katie criticizes the “broken” justice system for failing her

I'm taking my life back one day at a time #vlog #katiethurston

Collecting the DNA evidence and sending it to labs/law enforcement would take about four months. In the meantime, Katie sought psychological help. She saw a therapist and had an advocate who was available by text message. She also explained financial reimbursement for her treatment as well as potential “loss of income, moving expenses, medical bills, therapy and more.”

Katie recommended the book Know My Name by Chanel Miller. “Even though I could only read it in small doses before I became nauseous, I felt validated with each and every chapter.” As for justice, Katie said she “did everything she should have done as a rape victim.” But even though she did everything she could, it never seemed like she would get a guilty verdict.

“This is not a loss for me,” Katie continued. “No, this is another loss in a broken system. Change comes from failure. And the justice system failed me. And continues to fail thousands every day. But don’t give up.” She encouraged readers to “be your biggest advocate,” reminding everyone of their strength and worth. She concluded by saying, “I believe in you.”

The National Sexual Assault Hotline is available 24 hours a day at 1-800-656-4673. Help is available.

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