My son Bryson, who is nonverbal and profoundly autistic, was sexually assaulted by a trusted adult peer in the educational system. Bryson's inability to communicate verbally should not be a barrier to justice, yet, due to North Carolina’s current laws, it is. Because state law requires more than one victim to be involved for a prosecution to proceed and because Bryson is nonverbal, all charges against the perpetrator were dropped, in spite of a witness to the abuse. Bryson now faces challenges that are so severe, and we receive no help from the state to support him through this devastating process.

This is a grave injustice. Children with special needs, such as Bryson, are among the most vulnerable in our society. They deserve the protection of the law and the assurance that their cases will be pursued with the same vigor as any other. By failing to prosecute these crimes swiftly and decisively, we are not only denying justice to victims, but also failing to protect other potential victims from harm.

North Carolina should mandate the immediate prosecution of any sexual abuse or assault against a child with special needs without waiting for multiple victims to come forward. This legislative change is necessary to ensure that predators do not continue to harm those who cannot speak for themselves.

Statistics show that children with disabilities are three times more likely to be victims of sexual assault. This vulnerability makes it even more critical for our legal system to adapt in ways that protect them rather than leaving them in the shadows.

Other states have recognized the need to provide additional protections for children with disabilities and have enacted laws to ensure their swift prosecution. North Carolina must follow suit and prioritize the safety and justice for its most vulnerable residents.

We are calling on North Carolina lawmakers to revise the current laws to ensure immediate action is taken against any individual accused of sexually assaulting a child with special needs.

Your signature can help make this crucial change in the law, bringing justice and a sense of security to special needs children and their families across our state. Please sign this petition to protect the rights and safety of children like Bryson.