CNN judgemental headline - "rape victim left outside as ... homeowners called 911" [View all]

[Liberal_in_LA]

http://www.cnn.com/2013/07/11/justice/florida-rape-case/index.html?hpt=hp_t3


Nearly naked rape victim left outside as frightened homeowners called 911

(CNN) -- A Florida couple declined to answer the door just before midnight when a nearly naked woman knocked and screamed she had just been raped.
Rather, the homeowners called 911 Monday night

The couple inside the home refused to let the woman in because they said they were afraid to open their door. In the 911 call, the woman can be heard pleading in the background. The distressed couple begged police to hurry. Their home is in an isolated area, and the couple feared for their safety if they opened the door.
It took about 11 minutes for police to arrive.

A subsequent investigation led to an arrest of a suspect and prompted the spokesman of the DeLand Police Department to remark that "unfortunately fear dictates the response anymore not knowing if (you're) being set up for other criminal activity."

Police spokesman Lt. Jack Wales added that if citizens are uncomfortable opening the door to someone seeking help, "tell the person to calm down, you are calling 911 now," Wales said in a statement

"If there are two of you, one continues to talk to the victim reassuring them help is on the way while the other person stays on the line with the authorities," Wales said.
"You control how you respond. For example, tell the person to back away from the door to a place (you're) comfortable with so you can throw out a blanket or something then go back inside. Always beware of your surroundings around the entry way such as high bushes someone else could be hiding behind.