It's no secret that sexual misconduct is a widespread issue at college campuses around the globe. Many universities are beginning to provide new resources to help them address this issue. One tool that universities use to combat sexual misconduct might surprise you: social media.

Schools across the country recently began using Instagram to fight back against sexual misconduct. The social media platform allows students to anonymously report sexual misconduct and to hold assailants accountable for their actions. Here's what you need to know.

How Schools Use Instagram to Address Sexual Misconduct

Dozens of universities across the country recently created anonymous Instagram accounts to combat sexual misconduct. Universities including UC Berkeley, Columbia, Northwestern, the University of Alabama, and the University of Texas rolled out this platform on their campuses over the summer. The schools hope to empower sexual assault victims to speak up and share their stories in a safe environment.

Anonymous Instagram accounts have already changed the way schools respond to sexual misconduct allegations. The Instagram account CRWU Survivors at Case Western Reserve University received over 500 allegations of sexual misconduct since its inception.

In response, the university is expanding its sexual misconduct support and also reexamining how it responds to sexual violence on campus. Many schools might soon follow suit as more survivors speak up on these accounts.

What it Means for Students Accused of Sexual Misconduct

Anonymous Instagram accounts have already provided sexual misconduct victims with a platform to speak out. As the number of anonymous sexual misconduct allegations continues to climb, schools may feel pressure to move swiftly and address these allegations head-on.

Students accused of sexual misconduct on these platforms may face numerous barriers. Schools may move swiftly to punish accused students no matter the facts of the case. They may show biased outcomes in their investigations to appease student opinion and protect their image.

Schools already experienced a massive shift in their treatment of sexual misconduct investigations. Recent Title IX guidelines changed the requirements for handling of sexual misconduct allegations. Although these guidelines provide protections for defendants, many schools amended their code of conduct policies to further enforce sexual misconduct punishments.

There are also concerns that Instagram accounts open the door for fake reports and accusations made by those seeking revenge on innocent students.

Students accused of sexual misconduct may already face an uphill battle in clearing their name. The use of anonymous reporting may further muddy the waters and make it more difficult for students to prove their innocence.

How a Sexual Misconduct Advisor Can Help

The use of anonymous Instagram accounts has further complicated sexual misconduct reporting. If you or your child faces sexual misconduct allegations, it's crucial to retain an experienced criminal defense attorney. They can guide you through this difficult process and push back against baseless accusations.

Attorney Joseph D. Lento has fought on behalf of countless students unfairly accused of sexual misconduct. For many years, he and his team of attorneys have gained a reputation for achieving favorable outcomes. Contact the Lento Law Firm at 888-535-3686 today.