Crime expert: CD#5 candidate, Bynum, must report abuse

Sexual Assault Victims are United: Bynum Must Report Abuse – The Law is Clear
By Crime Victims United,

Lake Oswego, OR – Tiffany Edens and Danielle Tudor, victims of convicted serial rapist Richard Gillmore – the “Jogger Rapist” – condemned Rep. Janelle Bynum’s apparent failure to report allegations of sexual abuse against a minor.

Multiple reports indicate that Bynum was alerted to allegations that a member of her 2022 campaign staff sexually abused a minor. As mandatory reporters, legislators are required to report allegations of abuse against minors to either law enforcement or the Department of Human Services. It appears Bynum made no such report and, instead, requested the whistleblower cease informing her of the behavior of her staff.

“Legislators must report alleged sexual abuse of minors. The law is clear. Unfortunately, Representative Bynum is again prioritizing the accused while ignoring the rights of victims. This time, in direct violation of Oregon law,” said Tudor.

In 2019, Rep. Bynum was the only vote against H.B. 3293, which extended the period of time sexual assault survivors have to file a law suit against their rapist. In opposing the bill, Bynum told fellow lawmakers, “It’s not popular to protect the accused but it is our job.” The bill passed, and Bynum changed her vote only after the bill was amended to substantially shorten the window for victims to seek justice.

“Just because Rep. Bynum doesn’t want to protect victims, doesn’t mean she can ignore the law. Oregon’s elected representatives must uphold the law, not look the other way or blame others,” said Edens. “Her dismissal reflects a focus on self-preservation and career advancement, rather than the well-being of those in harm’s way.”

“As survivors of sexual assault and dedicated advocates for victims’ rights, we understand firsthand the lasting trauma these experiences cause. It is deeply personal for us to ensure the safety, support, and justice for all people, especially those who cannot protect themselves. Representative Bynum’s actions show a dangerous inability to prioritize the needs of survivors, and this is unacceptable from someone in a position of power responsible for creating laws that safeguard others,” said Edens and Tudor.

Edens and Tudor joined others in calling for a thorough, independent review of Bynum’s actions.

Edens and Tudor have spent decades advocating for the rights of victims of sexual assault. Their work led to passage of bills extending criminal and civil statutes of limitations, accelerating processing of rape kits, and protecting the rights of all victims of crime. Both are members of Crime Victims United of Oregon.

###

Crime Victims United was founded in 1983 to advance the rights of crime victims and enhance the safety of all law-abiding Oregonians by addressing problems in Oregon’s criminal justice system through legislative action and grassroots advocacy. Due to the tireless efforts of many volunteers, most of them victims of violent crime, much progress has been made toward protecting the rights of victims and making the state safer for all Oregonians.