WTAS: Oregon rape survivors and police leaders call out Janelle Bynum

WTAS: Oregon rape survivors and police leaders call out Janelle Bynum

ICYMI - Oregon rape survivors and victims' advocates as well as Oregon police and sheriff leaders called out extreme Janelle Bynum in recent days.

In last night's debate, voters witnessed Bynum lying and denying reality as she struggled to defend her record of ramming through extreme soft-on-crime legislation in Salem.

What they are saying…

Crime Victims United of Oregon: "Sexual Assault Victims are United: Bynum Must Report Abuse - The Law is Clear"

"Tiffany Edens and Danielle Tudor, victims of convicted serial rapist Richard Gillmore - the "Jogger Rapist" - today condemned Rep. Janelle Bynum's apparent failure to report allegations of sexual abuse against a minor.

"Multiple reports indicate that Bynum was alerted to allegations that a member of her 2022 campaign staff sexually abused a minor. As mandatory reporters, legislators are required to report allegations of abuse against minors to either law enforcement or the Department of Human Services. It appears Bynum made no such report and, instead, requested the whistleblower cease informing her of the behavior of her staff.

"'Legislators must report alleged sexual abuse of minors. The law is clear. Unfortunately, Representative Bynum is again prioritizing the accused while ignoring the rights of victims. This time, in direct violation of Oregon law,' said Tudor.

"In 2019, Rep. Bynum was the only vote against H.B. 3293, which extended the period of time sexual assault survivors have to file a law suit against their rapist. In opposing the bill, Bynum told fellow lawmakers, 'It's not popular to protect the accused but it is our job.' The bill passed, and Bynum changed her vote only after the bill was amended to substantially shorten the window for victims to seek justice.

"'Just because Rep. Bynum doesn't want to protect victims, doesn't mean she can ignore the law. Oregon's elected representatives must uphold the law, not look the other way or blame others," said Edens. 'Her dismissal reflects a focus on self-preservation and career advancement, rather than the well-being of those in harm's way.'

"'As survivors of sexual assault and dedicated advocates for victims' rights, we understand firsthand the lasting trauma these experiences cause. It is deeply personal for us to ensure the safety, support, and justice for all people, especially those who cannot protect themselves. Representative Bynum's actions show a dangerous inability to prioritize the needs of survivors, and this is unacceptable from someone in a position of power responsible for creating laws that safeguard others,' said Edens and Tudor.

Edens and Tudor joined others in calling for a thorough, independent review of Bynum's actions.

Oregon Coalition of Police and Sheriffs: "Correcting the Record on Rep. Janelle Bynum"

"Once again during this election, we find ourselves having to correct the record as Rep. Bynum looks to conceal her actions from voters.

Given the fact that Rep. Bynum was the Judiciary Chair and had the support of a super majority, she had no need to work across the aisle, which is precisely why Rep. Noble, the Oregon Coalition of Police & Sheriffs (ORCOPS), and other statewide law enforcement organizations united to challenge Rep. Bynum's efforts and mitigate the consequences of what would have been even more disastrous legislation.

"In her position of power, Rep. Bynum was hyper focused on forcing her ideals that proved harmful to our state. The statement that Rep. Noble 'rubber stamped' her bills is categorically false and a complete misrepresentation. ORCOPS and others tried repeatedly, in person, to warn Chair Bynum of the public safety implications of her proposed legislation; she simply refused to listen.

[…]

As signatories to this letter, we are shocked that Rep. Bynum continues to lie about her record and misrepresent the efforts of others to conceal the negative consequences of her policy proclivities. This even included attempting to block bills to protect children in schools from predators."

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