A 72-year-old woman writes to Dear Deidre seeking advice after her husband, 75, was accused of historical sexual abuse by his niece. She details the devastating impact on their family and expresses fear of potential public scrutiny if the case goes to court.
DEAR DEIDRE: MY husband has been accused of historic sexual abuse by a female relative, and I’m devastated.
It has torn my formerly close family apart – nobody is talking to each other – and I’m terrified of the publicity if it goes to court. I’m 72 and he is 75. His niece, who is now 26, has told police he touched her inappropriately when she was eight. He vehemently denies it, but several relatives have sided with her. Now, they are not talking to either of us.After 45 years of marriage, I am standing by him. He is broken and can’t stop crying.The police haven’t yet decided if they will prosecute. I’m worried that if they do, my husband’s reputation will be destroyed – regardless of whether he is innocent or guilty. People will hate us.But be aware that it’s rare for someone to make up accusations of sexual abuse many years later.
Sexual Abuse Family Feud Legal Issues Marriage Counseling Reputation Damage
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