DAWSON CREEK -- RCMP revealed some shocking numbers on Thursday relating to increased reports of sexual assaults in Dawson Creek.
The police confirmed reports of sexual assault have gone up by 24% since the beginning of the year.
They say the majority of incidents were historical and happened months, years or even decades before police were informed.
More than half the time, the victims knew their offenders.
RCMP says there’s no urgent or immediate threat to individuals in Dawson Creek but they’re reminding people to stay aware.
“I would continue to provide the same advice I’ve always given, which is take care when walking by yourself late at night. Strength in numbers, stay close to family and friends, stay in well lit and populated areas and always let someone know where you are and when you expect to arrive,” said Staff Sgt. Damon Werrell.
The Fort St. John Women’s Resource Society says there are multiple reasons sexual assault isn’t reported right away.
Victims suffering from trauma become more comfortable speaking out after enrolling in therapy and confiding in a councillor.
In some cases, the victim is still living with the person who’s abusing them, and they don’t know what options or resources are available.
COVID-19 lockdowns also affectively stopped people from reporting incidents since shelters and hotels had little to no space to accommodate fleeing victims.
