Sexual Assault

[Warning: This article discusses rape and sexual assault.] As we all know, Bill Cosby was found guilty in 2018 of three counts of aggravated sexual assault and sentenced to 10 years in prison. The accusations that surfaced around the case - and there were many of them - were horrific, particularly in reference to such a (previously) lovable American icon. Perhaps the most shocking news about this case, however, came out only last month: Cosby was released from prison on a technicality. Understandably, sexual assault survivors and other advocates have protested the finding, claiming it could lead to a dangerous backsliding of the long-overdue progress for the #MeToo movement. But what about the legality of the decision? Does it have any merit? And what does this mean for other survivors? Read on for a summary from former federal prosecutor, Shan Wu. WATCH SHAN’S ANALYSIS ON CNN HERE How did Bill...

If you keep up with this blog, or follow Shan on any social media, you know that Shan is frequently consulted by national news outlets for his insight into pressing news stories as a former federal prosecutor and current defense attorney. In this week’s update of a series we’re now calling “Hot Off the Presses,” Shan weighs in on recent developments in the Justice Department’s investigation into Representative Matt Gaetz for his alleged involvement sex trafficking. Below is an overview of Shan’s insight, as well as links to his media appearances. The Matt Gaetz investigation Matt Gaetz is a Republican congressman from Florida, notorious for his ardent support of former President Trump and his prominence among the hard-right wing of the Republican Party. In March, the New York Times reported that the Department of Justice is currently investigating Gaetz’s involvement in an alleged sex trafficking scheme that has been developing...