The Tribune in recent weeks has reported on several horrific allegations of sexual abuse that happened in recent years and are being charged now in Freeborn County District Court. Some cases have concluded with convictions, and some are just starting in the court process.

Some cases have involved multiple victims, while other cases involved single victims over multiple years.

Whether there has been an increase in cases of sexual abuse or the number of people reporting has increased, the fact is, it is happening — and it is not OK.

These cases are life-altering.

To the victims, please know that there are local organizations to help in recovery, including the Crime Victims Crisis Center in Freeborn County.

This agency is part of the Department of Human Services and has on-call, trained volunteers to help people outside of regular business hours — at any time of day in the evenings and on weekends. Simply call 373-2223.

The crisis center also offers assistance with placing orders for protection and harassment restraining orders, accompaniment to court hearings and providing other education, to name a few.

Protect the victims and spread the message that this type of behavior is not acceptable.