Mark Serrano of Washington D.c., Says Sex Abuse Surviors like Himself Feel Trapped

By Ken Molestina
WUSA
June 16, 2012

http://www.wusa9.com/news/article/208951/187/Sexual-Abuse-Victim-Describes-Pattern

The defense in the Jerry Sandusky sex abuse trial is scheduled to begin on Monday. This week, a handful of young men testified on behalf of the prosecution, claiming Sandusky repeatedly abused them sexually.

Those testimonies have many asking why sex abuse victims would allow themselves to be re-victimized time and time again. Now, a sex abuse survivor is offering perspective.

Mark Serrano is regarded as the first clergy abuse survivor to publicly break a gag order in a church settlement and come forward with details of his abuse.

Serrano said the reason that victims are hurt repeatedly by their attackers is because they feel trapped.

Serrano said, "A predator like that is very skillful, very patient at stripping away the instincts from the victim."

According to him, rewards like gifts and good praise can fool victims into thinking they are trapped.

He said , "The kid just doesn't know that he should call the cops, because the perpetrator has convinced him that this is their secret. This is something special. This is just for them."

That's what he said happened to him when his priest molested him. Jerry Sandusky is accused of doing the same to his accusers.