Local agencies warn parents to keep an eye out for sexual assault during the holidays

For many, Thanksgiving is an exciting time for reunions with family and friends, with people traveling thousands of miles to unify in one household.

But, local Grand Strand agencies warn it’s also a time where there is a spike in sexual assaults nationwide.

Workers at the Horry/Georgetown Rape Crisis Center encourage parents to keep an open mind with their children and allow them to decide what makes them comfortable on Thanksgiving, even if it means not hugging a certain relative. 

“If they feel uncomfortable, I don’t care if it’s Grandma or Uncle Louie. Make sure your child can let you know. Also let them know it’s okay to extend a hand instead of hug.” said 

“Let your child know it’s okay to extend their hand. Let your household rules remain just that. Your household rules.” said Sexual Assault Coordinator, Layveleta Walker.

Each year without fail she says they see a spike of clients, especially incidents involving alcohol. Police Departments across the nation encourage people to boycott so-called “Blackout Wednesday.” 

“Keep a list of numbers aside from 911, a list of favorites of people you can say ‘Come pick me up, I think I’ve had too much.” said Walker.

Examiners at the Children Recovery Center say if a child does confront you in the coming months about a holiday encounter, it’s important to believe them.

“Don’t worry about that it’s Uncle Fred or the neighbor or someone you know because the truth is the abuse happens by someone you know 90% of the time. ” said Haydee Sencion, Forensic Interviewer for the Children’s Recovery Center.