Attacked and accused of lying – my long fight for the truth

Donna Palomba's life changed in September 1993, when she was sexually assaulted in her family home in Connecticut. A month after the attack, Donna was called to the local police station and accused of making the assault up by the officer in charge of her case. It was a devastating blow but Donna was determined to clear her name and get justice. It would take years and several court cases before her attacker was arrested and his identity sent shockwaves through Donna’s family and community. As a result of her experience Donna founded Jane Doe No More, a non-profit organisation called Jane Doe No More which empowers survivors of sexual crimes to find their voice, advance their healing and educate others.

A warning that what Donna describes is shocking and at times distressing.

Get in touch: outlook@bbc.com

Presenter: Anu Anand Producer: Tom Harding Assinder

(Photo: Donna Palomba. Credit: Christine Petit)