Missoula: Rape and the Justice System in a College Town

Bias in law enforcement refers to the prejudices and preconceived notions that influence the actions and decisions of police officers and other authorities. Krakauer illustrates how biases, particularly those related to gender and societal status, affect the investigation and prosecution of sexual assault cases. This bias often results in the survivor being disbelieved, or the perpetrator being given undue leniency, especially in cases involving prominent individuals like athletes. Such biases are partly responsible for determining The Role of Institutions in Perpetuating or Combating Rape Culture.

Cultural denial is the phenomenon where a community collectively refuses to acknowledge or address an uncomfortable or inconvenient truth. Krakauer examines how the town of Missoula and its institutions, including the University of Montana, engaged in cultural denial concerning the prevalence of sexual assault within the community. This denial perpetuated a culture of silence and complicity, making it difficult for survivors to come forward and seek justice.

A federal investigation is an inquiry conducted by federal agencies, often in response to potential violations of federal law or significant public interest. The book details the federal investigation launched by the Department of Justice into the handling of sexual assault cases in Missoula, particularly by the Missoula Police Department and the Missoula County Attorney’s Office. This investigation was prompted by widespread allegations of mishandling and the systemic failure to protect survivors, shedding light on the broader issues within the criminal justice system but also offering hope that institutions can serve the interests of sexual assault survivors.

Football culture refers to the social norms, behaviors, and attitudes surrounding football, particularly in college towns where the sport holds significant cultural and economic importance. Krakauer explores how football culture in Missoula, centered around the University of Montana Grizzlies, contributed to the protection of athletes accused of sexual assault. This culture prioritized the reputation of the football team and the university over the rights and well-being of survivors, leading to a pervasive environment of impunity.

A forensic examination is a medical procedure conducted to collect evidence following a sexual assault. Krakauer provides detailed accounts of the forensic examinations undergone by survivors like Allison Huguet. These examinations are critical in gathering physical evidence that can support the survivor’s case, but they are also invasive and can feel like a secondary violation. The book discusses the importance of these examinations in the pursuit of justice despite the challenges they pose to survivors.

Institutional betrayal occurs when an institution, such as a university or law enforcement agency, fails to protect or support individuals who rely on it, especially in times of need. Krakauer illustrates how survivors of sexual assault experienced institutional betrayal when the University of Montana, the Missoula Police Department, and other entities prioritized their reputations and interests over the safety and justice of the survivors. Such betrayal exacerbates the trauma experienced by survivors, contributes to rape culture, and undermines public trust in these institutions.

Rape culture is a societal environment in which rape and sexual violence are normalized and excused due to prevailing attitudes about gender, sex, and power. The book examines the manifestations of rape culture within the town of Missoula and the US as a whole. Krakauer examines how victim-blaming, trivialization of rape, and the protection of perpetrators, particularly in cases involving popular or powerful individuals, contribute to a culture that perpetuates sexual violence.

Title IX is a federal civil rights law that prohibits sex-based discrimination in educational institutions that receive federal funding. Krakauer discusses how Title IX plays a role in how universities handle sexual assault allegations, particularly in the case of Jordan Johnson, a University of Montana football player accused of rape. The book critiques the application of Title IX, highlighting both its potential to protect survivors and the challenges in ensuring it is enforced effectively.