A day with Russell Strand

Through three engaging sessions, attendees will deepen their understanding of victim-centered approaches and investigative challenges.

My Journey from Law Enforcement to Victim Advocacy – Lessons Learned Along the Way:
This session shares a personal narrative of transitioning from law enforcement to victim advocacy, highlighting the lessons learned about empathy, trauma-informed care, and the importance of human-centered approaches. Participants will gain perspective on the challenges and rewards of advocacy work, including strategies for building trust and fostering collaboration with survivors. The speaker will discuss how this journey has shaped best practices for supporting victims and improving investigative outcomes.

Investigating Recantations:
This topic addresses the complexities of handling victim recantations during investigations, emphasizing the importance of understanding underlying reasons such as fear, trauma, or coercion. Participants will learn techniques for assessing the credibility of recantations, maintaining objectivity, and gathering additional evidence to support the survivor’s account. The session also explores legal considerations and best practices for managing recantations to ensure thorough and fair investigations.

Voluntary Intoxication – It’s Not Consent for Sex:
This segment clarifies the legal and ethical distinctions between voluntary intoxication and consent in sexual assault cases. Attendees will explore how intoxication impairs judgment and the importance of consent being informed and voluntary. The discussion will include strategies for recognizing signs of intoxication, understanding victim dynamics, and ensuring that investigations respect survivors’ rights while upholding justice.