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In Part 3 of Tressa’s story, she takes us inside what happened as her case moved into the legal system. She shares the emotional toll of navigating the court process while trying to rebuild her life—and the terrifying reality that the man who sexually assaulted and nearly killed her continued to stalk her. Tressa reflects on what it was like to seek justice while still living in fear, the moments that made her question whether the system could truly keep her safe, and the lasting impact of being forced to face the person who had already taken so much from her. This episode is a powerful look at a part of survival we don’t talk about enough: what happens when the crime is over, but the fear isn’t. Content warning: This episode contains discussions of drug-facilitated sexual assault, abduction, strangulation, attempted murder, physical violence, and trauma. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 from any phone in the United States Training Institute on Strangulation Prevention: https://www.strangulationtraininginstitute.com/ American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: https://afsp.org/ Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN): https://www.rainn.org/ National Center for Victims of Crime: https://victimsofcrime.org Victim Connect Resource Center: https://victimconnect.org National Crime Victim Bar Association: https://victimbar.org Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA): https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org/help HOW TO REACH US: Email: [email protected] IG/Facebook: @forensicnursefiles Tiktok: @forensicnursefilespod Are you a nurse or healthcare provider in the forensics field? Are you a victim of assault? Reach out to us! We would love to feature you or your story anonymously on an episode!

In part 2 of Tressa's episode, she takes us into the immediate aftermath of surviving a violent sexual assault and attempted murder. She shares what it was like to undergo a forensic examination while processing unimaginable trauma—and the exhaustion of having to tell her story again and again to different people within the system. Through her experience, we explore the forensic exam from the survivor’s perspective, the emotional weight of repeatedly recounting trauma, and why trauma-informed, survivor-centered care matters at every step. Tressa’s story is a powerful reminder that what happens after an assault can leave an impact of its own—and that survivors deserve to be heard, believed, and treated with dignity throughout the process. Content warning: This episode contains discussions of drug-facilitated sexual assault, abduction, strangulation, attempted murder, physical violence, and trauma. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 from any phone in the United States Training Institute on Strangulation Prevention: https://www.strangulationtraininginstitute.com/ American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: https://afsp.org/ Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN): https://www.rainn.org/ National Center for Victims of Crime: https://victimsofcrime.org Victim Connect Resource Center: https://victimconnect.org National Crime Victim Bar Association: https://victimbar.org Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA): https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org/help HOW TO REACH US: Email: [email protected] IG/Facebook: @forensicnursefiles Tiktok: @forensicnursefilespod Are you a nurse or healthcare provider in the forensics field? Are you a victim of assault? Reach out to us! We would love to feature you or your story anonymously on an episode!

In part 1 of her series, Tressa Cooper shares the story of the night that changed her life. In 1999, Tressa was drugged, abducted, and brutally sexually assaulted for hours in Austin, Texas. Her attacker strangled her twice and left her with severe injuries—but Tressa survived. In her own words, Tressa takes us through what she remembers from that night, the violence she endured, and the moments that ultimately led to her survival. She describes herself not as a survivor, but as an “endurer”—because while the crime ended, the enduring didn’t. This is Tressa’s story, told by the woman who lived it. Content warning: This episode contains discussions of drug-facilitated sexual assault, abduction, strangulation, attempted murder, physical violence, and trauma. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 from any phone in the United States Training Institute on Strangulation Prevention: https://www.strangulationtraininginstitute.com/ American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: https://afsp.org/ Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN): https://www.rainn.org/ National Center for Victims of Crime: https://victimsofcrime.org Victim Connect Resource Center: https://victimconnect.org National Crime Victim Bar Association: https://victimbar.org Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA): https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org/help HOW TO REACH US: Email: [email protected] IG/Facebook: @forensicnursefiles Tiktok: @forensicnursefilespod Are you a nurse or healthcare provider in the forensics field? Are you a victim of assault? Reach out to us! We would love to feature you or your story anonymously on an episode!

Today, Angelique speaks candidly about addiction, motherhood, and now 12 years of sobriety before taking us back to July 5, 2011, the day she was abducted, brutally beaten, and sexually assaulted before escaping and running more than six miles through the woods for help. Angelique became the first survivor to report the man who attacked her, helping launch an investigation that ultimately connected him to multiple survivors and identified a serial offender. She also shares the people who changed the course of her healing, including the woman who stopped to help her, the detective who believed her, and the SANE nurse whose compassion she still remembers nearly 15 years later. This is a story of survival, sobriety, faith, healing, and finding purpose through advocacy. Content warning: This episode contains discussions of addiction, sexual assault, abduction, physical violence, and trauma. Angelique's Website: https://survivorsbeyondstatutes.com/ Donate to help CO survivors get kits get retested! ⁠⁠⁠https://gofund.me/407c519ba⁠⁠⁠  Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 from any phone in the United States Training Institute on Strangulation Prevention: https://www.strangulationtraininginstitute.com/ American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: https://afsp.org/ Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN): https://www.rainn.org/ National Center for Victims of Crime: https://victimsofcrime.org Victim Connect Resource Center: https://victimconnect.org National Crime Victim Bar Association: https://victimbar.org Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA): https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org/help HOW TO REACH US: Email: [email protected] IG/Facebook: @forensicnursefiles Tiktok: @forensicnursefilespod Are you a nurse or healthcare provider in the forensics field? Are you a victim of assault? Reach out to us! We would love to feature you or your story anonymously on an episode!

Today, we learn a little bit more about Kelsey (from our Colorado in Crisis episodes). Tune in as she shares her story of childhood sexual abuse by a family member, the systemic failures in justice, and her journey towards advocacy and healing. This episode sheds light on the complexities of trauma, grooming, and the importance of survivor-centered approaches. Kelsey's IG for updates on advocacy: @kelseyjeanspeaks Donate to help CO survivors get kits get retested! ⁠⁠⁠https://gofund.me/407c519ba⁠⁠⁠  Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 from any phone in the United States Training Institute on Strangulation Prevention: https://www.strangulationtraininginstitute.com/ American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: https://afsp.org/ Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN): https://www.rainn.org/ National Center for Victims of Crime: https://victimsofcrime.org Victim Connect Resource Center: https://victimconnect.org National Crime Victim Bar Association: https://victimbar.org Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA): https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org/help HOW TO REACH US: Email: [email protected] IG/Facebook: @forensicnursefiles Tiktok: @forensicnursefilespod Are you a nurse or healthcare provider in the forensics field? Are you a victim of assault? Reach out to us! We would love to feature you or your story anonymously on an episode!

In this episode, Kelsey & Angelique are back after disgraced CBI forensic scientist Missy Woods was sentenced on September 8 after accepting a plea deal. Listen now as we discuss the systemic failures in victim notification and the broader implications for justice and accountability in Colorado. In this episode, Kelsey Harbert and guests discuss the alarming issues surrounding DNA evidence mishandling, wrongful convictions, and systemic failures within forensic laboratories, emphasizing the urgent need for reform and accountability. Donate to help CO survivors get kits get retested! ⁠⁠https://gofund.me/407c519ba⁠⁠  Information on kit backlogs by state: ⁠https://www.endthebacklog.org/⁠  Kelsey's IG for updates/information on the crisis: @kelseyjeanspeaks Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 from any phone in the United States Training Institute on Strangulation Prevention: https://www.strangulationtraininginstitute.com/ American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: https://afsp.org/ Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN): https://www.rainn.org/ National Center for Victims of Crime: https://victimsofcrime.org Victim Connect Resource Center: https://victimconnect.org National Crime Victim Bar Association: https://victimbar.org Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA): https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org/help HOW TO REACH US: Email: [email protected] IG/Facebook: @forensicnursefiles Tiktok: @forensicnursefilespod Are you a nurse or healthcare provider in the forensics field? Are you a victim of assault? Reach out to us! We would love to feature you or your story anonymously on an episode!

Today, Emily shares her personal story of growing up in a tumultuous household marked by emotional, physical, and sexual abuse and how she found healing and self-awareness through understanding personality disorders and setting boundaries. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 from any phone in the United States Training Institute on Strangulation Prevention: https://www.strangulationtraininginstitute.com/ American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: https://afsp.org/ Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN): https://www.rainn.org/ National Center for Victims of Crime: https://victimsofcrime.org Victim Connect Resource Center: https://victimconnect.org National Crime Victim Bar Association: https://victimbar.org Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA): https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org/help HOW TO REACH US: Email: [email protected] IG/Facebook: @forensicnursefiles Tiktok: @forensicnursefilespod Are you a nurse or healthcare provider in the forensics field? Are you a victim of assault? Reach out to us! We would love to feature you or your story anonymously on an episode!

In this episode, two fierce survivors and advocates Kelsey and Angelique, shed light on the critical issues surrounding the forensic science backlog, evidence tampering, and systemic corruption in Colorado's criminal justice system surrounding Missy Woods. Listen now as they share their powerful journey advocating for sexual assault survivors, exposing systemic failures, and rallying community support to test and process the backlog of SA evidenciary kits. This episode highlights the urgent need for accountability and systemic change in forensic and legal systems. Donate to help CO survivors get kits get retested! ⁠https://gofund.me/407c519ba⁠  Information on kit backlogs by state: https://www.endthebacklog.org/  Kelsey's IG for updates/information on the crisis: @kelseyjeanspeaks Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 from any phone in the United States Training Institute on Strangulation Prevention: https://www.strangulationtraininginstitute.com/ American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: https://afsp.org/ Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN): https://www.rainn.org/ National Center for Victims of Crime: https://victimsofcrime.org Victim Connect Resource Center: https://victimconnect.org National Crime Victim Bar Association: https://victimbar.org Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA): https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org/help HOW TO REACH US: Email: [email protected] IG/Facebook: @forensicnursefiles Tiktok: @forensicnursefilespod Are you a nurse or healthcare provider in the forensics field? Are you a victim of assault? Reach out to us! We would love to feature you or your story anonymously on an episode!

Today, Gregorio shares his extraordinary journey of surviving the impossible, overcoming psychiatric abuse, and transforming pain into purpose. His story highlights resilience, mental health advocacy, and the power of authentic self-love. Gregorio's wesbite: https://sanityisafulltimejob.org/index.html#/ Gregorio's Books: https://sanityisafulltimejob.org/books.html#/ Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 from any phone in the United States Training Institute on Strangulation Prevention: https://www.strangulationtraininginstitute.com/ American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: https://afsp.org/ Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN): https://www.rainn.org/ National Center for Victims of Crime: https://victimsofcrime.org Victim Connect Resource Center: https://victimconnect.org National Crime Victim Bar Association: https://victimbar.org Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA): https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org/help HOW TO REACH US: Email: [email protected] IG/Facebook: @forensicnursefiles Tiktok: @forensicnursefilespod Are you a nurse or healthcare provider in the forensics field? Are you a victim of assault? Reach out to us! We would love to feature you or your story anonymously on an episode!

Today, Dr. Leah Zitter shares the 2nd part of her extraordinary journey from a childhood marked by trauma and isolation to becoming a behavioral neuroscience PhD and a cognitive security expert. She discusses her experiences growing up in the Neturei Karta cult, her self-education, and her innovative work in de-radicalization and human hacking. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 from any phone in the United States Training Institute on Strangulation Prevention: https://www.strangulationtraininginstitute.com/ American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: https://afsp.org/ Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN): https://www.rainn.org/ National Center for Victims of Crime: https://victimsofcrime.org Victim Connect Resource Center: https://victimconnect.org National Crime Victim Bar Association: https://victimbar.org Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA): https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org/help HOW TO REACH US: Email: [email protected] IG/Facebook: @forensicnursefiles Tiktok: @forensicnursefilespod Are you a nurse or healthcare provider in the forensics field? Are you a victim of assault? Reach out to us! We would love to feature you or your story anonymously on an episode!

Today, Dr. Leah Zitter shares her extraordinary journey from a childhood marked by trauma and isolation to becoming a behavioral neuroscience PhD and a cognitive security expert. She discusses her experiences growing up in the Neturei Karta cult, her self-education, and her innovative work in de-radicalization and human hacking. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 from any phone in the United States Training Institute on Strangulation Prevention: https://www.strangulationtraininginstitute.com/ American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: https://afsp.org/ Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN): https://www.rainn.org/ National Center for Victims of Crime: https://victimsofcrime.org Victim Connect Resource Center: https://victimconnect.org National Crime Victim Bar Association: https://victimbar.org Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA): https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org/help HOW TO REACH US: Email: [email protected] IG/Facebook: @forensicnursefiles Tiktok: @forensicnursefilespod Are you a nurse or healthcare provider in the forensics field? Are you a victim of assault? Reach out to us! We would love to feature you or your story anonymously on an episode!

In this episode, Greg Owen shares his extraordinary journey from touring rock musician to a seasoned homicide prosecutor and gang unit chief. He offers an inside look at the complexities of criminal investigations, courtroom strategies, and the stories behind some of his most memorable cases. In this episode, Gregg Owen shares his extensive experience as a prosecutor, insights into the criminal justice system, and lessons learned from working with victims' families. Discover how his background in music and diverse life experiences shaped his approach to law and justice. Gregg Owen: https://www.greggowen26th.com/ IG: @greggowen26th How to buy Convergence: https://www.greggowen26th.com/books/ Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 from any phone in the United States Training Institute on Strangulation Prevention: https://www.strangulationtraininginstitute.com/ American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: https://afsp.org/ Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN): https://www.rainn.org/ National Center for Victims of Crime: https://victimsofcrime.org Victim Connect Resource Center: https://victimconnect.org National Crime Victim Bar Association: https://victimbar.org Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA): https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org/help HOW TO REACH US: Email: [email protected] IG/Facebook: @forensicnursefiles Tiktok: @forensicnursefilespod Are you a nurse or healthcare provider in the forensics field? Are you a victim of assault? Reach out to us! We would love to feature you or your story anonymously on an episode!

In this episode, Steph shares her powerful journey of surviving and healing from childhood trauma, domestic violence and sexual assault, offering hope and insights for others on similar paths. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 from any phone in the United States Training Institute on Strangulation Prevention: https://www.strangulationtraininginstitute.com/ American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: https://afsp.org/ Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN): https://www.rainn.org/ National Center for Victims of Crime: https://victimsofcrime.org Victim Connect Resource Center: https://victimconnect.org National Crime Victim Bar Association: https://victimbar.org Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA): https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org/help HOW TO REACH US: Gmail: [email protected] IG/Facebook: @forensicnursefiles Tiktok: @forensicnursefilespod Are you a nurse or healthcare provider in the forensics field? Are you a victim of assault? Reach out to us! We would love to feature you or your story anonymously on an episode!

In part 2 of Maria's story, she delves into the digital abuse that was happening behind the scenes in her relationship. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 from any phone in the United States Training Institute on Strangulation Prevention: https://www.strangulationtraininginstitute.com/ American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: https://afsp.org/ Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN): https://www.rainn.org/ National Center for Victims of Crime: https://victimsofcrime.org Victim Connect Resource Center: https://victimconnect.org National Crime Victim Bar Association: https://victimbar.org Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA): https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org/help HOW TO REACH US: Gmail: [email protected] IG/Facebook: @forensicnursefiles Tiktok: @forensicnursefilespod Are you a nurse or healthcare provider in the forensics field? Are you a victim of assault? Reach out to us! We would love to feature you or your story anonymously on an episode!

In today's episode, Maria delves into her experience with domestic abuse, manipulation, and recovery, highlighting the importance of recognizing red flags and seeking help. This episode offers vital insights into toxic relationships and the resilience needed to escape them. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 from any phone in the United States Training Institute on Strangulation Prevention: https://www.strangulationtraininginstitute.com/ American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: https://afsp.org/ Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN): https://www.rainn.org/ National Center for Victims of Crime: https://victimsofcrime.org Victim Connect Resource Center: https://victimconnect.org National Crime Victim Bar Association: https://victimbar.org Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA): https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org/help HOW TO REACH US: Gmail: [email protected] IG/Facebook: @forensicnursefiles Tiktok: @forensicnursefilespod Are you a nurse or healthcare provider in the forensics field? Are you a victim of assault? Reach out to us! We would love to feature you or your story anonymously on an episode!