Retired Indiana state trooper takes on role of sexual assault victims’ advocate
VIGO COUNTY, Ind. (WTHI) – Brenda Simmons has dedicated her life to serving the community, as well as the people in need.
“That’s just the kind of person I am, I care about people,” said Simmons.
Simmons is a retired state trooper, her career in law enforcement spans more than 20 years. Now, she is taking on a different role, one that will help victims find their voice again.
The Council of Domestic Abuse, or CODA, recently received grant money earlier this month. The money was toward funding a new position on their staff, a sexual assault victims advocate.
“I’m just there to help the victim get through this horrible experience as best as they can,” said Simmons.
Once she receives a call from the hospital, or police, Simmons goes to work.
“I will be called out any time of the day or night,” said Simmons, “I’ve been called at 2 or 4 in the morning.”
The moment Simmons arrives to the hospital, she’s there every step of the way through the healing process for the victim. She’s there as a supporter, as well as resource.
“It is such a traumatic experience and they will carry it with them for the rest of their lives,” said Simmons, “Hopefully I can get them through it, help get them counseling and I follow through with them.”
As a former state trooper, Simmons knows coming forward is not the easy. However, in her new job title, she’s hoping to change that by educating victims of their options, as well as from a law enforcement stand point.
“When they were sexually assaulted their control was taken away, we’re hoping to give that control back to them,” said Simmons.
Simmons also works closely with the court system, like Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Raeanna Moore.
“Brenda has worked with the prosecutors, so she knows what we do” said Moore, “It really has given her an inside into the system that none of our prior advocates have had.”
Simmons hopes to be the voice for the ones who feel like they’ve lost theirs during their traumatic time.
“That’s why I want to be out there when they first go to the hospital,” said Simmons, “Even if they don’t want to talk to me, I give them my business card, I let them know who I am and that I’m there
To find a CODA Sexual Assault and Domestic Abuse center in your area, click here.