Ep 2. Predator On The Reservation

In season 38 episode 2 of the investigative journalism series Frontline, titled "Predator On The Reservation," viewers are taken into the heart of the Fort Berthold Reservation in North Dakota to explore the epidemic of sexual assault and abuse that has taken hold of the Native American community.

The episode begins by introducing viewers to an activist named Lisa Brunner, who is a survivor of sexual assault herself. Lisa is determined to help other victims and has made it her life's mission to raise awareness about this issue and to hold those who commit these heinous crimes accountable. Viewers are shown footage of Lisa visiting various towns on the reservation, speaking to people about their experiences and urging them to share their stories in order to help bring about change.

Through interviews with victims, advocates, and law enforcement officials, the episode shines a light on the appalling reality of sexual assault and abuse on the reservation. It's a reality where Native American women are 2.5 times more likely to experience sexual assault than any other group in the United States, and where roughly 96% of these crimes go unpunished. Even more shockingly, many of the perpetrators are non-Native men who live and work on the reservation, taking advantage of a legal loophole that prevents tribal authorities from prosecuting them for crimes committed on their land.

The episode goes on to give viewers an inside look at the complex legal and jurisdictional issues that make it so difficult to hold perpetrators of sexual assault and abuse accountable. We see firsthand how tribal law enforcement officials are often overwhelmed by the sheer volume of cases they have to deal with, and how federal authorities are often hesitant to get involved due to a lack of resources or reluctance to interfere in tribal affairs. The result is a situation where most victims end up getting no justice, and many are forced to live in fear and shame while their abusers continue to walk free.

Throughout the episode, viewers are also introduced to several survivors of sexual assault who share their stories in candid and emotional interviews. Their stories serve as a powerful reminder of the immense trauma and pain that these crimes inflict, and of the urgent need to address this issue on a national level. We also hear from the families of victims who have lost loved ones to suicide or drug addiction after being unable to cope with the aftermath of their assaults.

Despite the grim nature of the subject matter, "Predator On The Reservation" is ultimately a story of resilience and hope. We see how grassroots organizations and activists like Lisa Brunner are working tirelessly to raise awareness about this issue and to push for change. We also see how some law enforcement officials and lawmakers are beginning to take a more proactive approach to tackling sexual assault and abuse on the reservation.

Overall, "Predator On The Reservation" is a sobering and eye-opening look at the epidemic of sexual assault and abuse that has taken hold in Native American communities. It's a powerful call-to-action for all of us to do our part in addressing this issue, whether by supporting victims, advocating for stronger laws and policies, or simply by raising awareness about the staggering scope of this problem. And it's a reminder that, while the road ahead may be long and difficult, there is hope that we can begin to turn the tide and create a world where every individual is able to live free from the threat of sexual violence.