A Message from Alexa's Parents

The crime of rape is the ultimate violation. It's fair to say that rape isn't something a person "gets over"; rather they learn to cope with it.

More than half of all rape prosecutions-54%-- are either dismissed before trial or result in acquittal ("The Response to Rape," prepared by the Majority Staff of the Senate Judiciary Committee, May 1993). Only 6% of rapists will ever spend a day in prison.

For those rape victims whose case makes it to court, the impact of the trial on the victim is almost as traumatic as the attack itself. Unfortunately, the victim is made not only to relive the event in an open court, but also to defend or explain her actions and reactions as if she herself were on trial.

Our family's trial experience was a nightmare. Alexa showed courage and determination throughout this legal nightmare. Alexa earned the respect of police officers, the district attorney, and jurors alike for her fierce determination in court. Alexa would be the first person to say that our support during this difficult time was the only way she was able to survive the horror of those 3-1/2 weeks.

We have established the It Happened to Alexa Foundation in an effort to ensure that victims' has a support person present throughout the trial. Most families would find it difficult, if not impossible, to bear the financial burden of travel, lodging, lost wages, etc. that a lengthy trial can incur. It is our hope that this foundation will give victims and their families one less burden during this difficult time.

Tom and Stacey Branchini

The It Happened to Alexa Foundation . . .

. . . because family is important to a victim's ability to heal.