how long after being sexually abused by my brother can i tell the police?

Question

i was abused by my brother between the ages of 14 and 19 i tried telling my parents many times but they never believed me. he never had sex with me it was sexual touching. the more he got away with it the more frequently it happened i just need to know at the age of 24 where i stand with regards to legal action against him

Answer 1

Yes you can still confront him, but, are you prepared for the consequences of your actions? There are people in your family that may never speak to you again, your parents still may not believe you and may disown you, the police may not believe you,
It probably will be in the papers, especially if your brother is in a position of any importance such as teacher or police officer etc... you wil probably have to go to trial and EVERYTHING that you
ever did that was questionable will be brought up for the whole world to see and judge as well. YOU will be blamed for the touching because "boys will be boys" and "somehow you HAD to have led him on" and of course the famous one "well, she never stopped it!"

If you are able to live with that, go for it and nail the bas$#^d, I wasn't able to deal with it and ended the process early, so my abusers still walk free and smile at me at every family function. And now I have to deal with "see, told you it never happened" So, my best advice, choose your battle wisely and don't start unless you intend to finish.

Answer 2

You can try, but I think even rape has a 5 yr statute of limitations on it. Incest may be different though.
But think about it if its worth the trouble. You have no proof and it would probably just be your word against his. The DA may see that and think it isnt even worth his time. All this would accomplish is disowning and tearing your family apart. regardless, you may still think this is something you need to do. Then call the police and ask. Better yet, go down there in person.

Answer 3

I don't know that there's a statute of limitations on the matter. I would discuss it with the police department in your city or contact a health care professional. Possibly seek therapy at the same time to help you through it as there is probably going to be a lot of turmoil (more than you've already gone through) that will happen when you file charges.

Answer 4

I am sorry to hear about this. Depending on the state you live in there may or may not be a statute of limitations, meaning that in some states there is no time limit to report the rape. Best advice would be to call the police or your states district attorney and ask.

Answer 5

Usually the answer would be about 30 seconds, but in your case we will just go with "as soon as possible".

As a previous answer stated, what other improper things is he doing with the improper people.

Call a lawyer, or legal aid first, and then get on with it.

Answer 6

Your parents should get in legal trouble too. After all, they were the ones allowing all of this to happen. Child endangerment. Go to a lawyer ASAP

Answer 7

You should have gone to them right away. If your parents wouldn't believe you then you should have gone to a teacher or other adult you trusted. It is never too late to report any kind of abuse.Do it now...you may save someone else from going through the same thing. Good luck

Answer 8

Most states probably have a statute of limitations...but it's worth a try. But don't think that going to the police will solve your problems.

Answer 9

i would go ahead and talk with the police and see if they can do anything about your brother. I am not sure how long for this kind of abuse but do talk with the police and talk with the couselor at your town they can help you

Answer 10

You should talk to a lawyer. I'm thinking it's 7-10 years that you have to press charges. Good luck and God bless!