Missoula: Rape and the Justice System in a College Town

Beau Donaldson is arrested for raping Allison Huguet. Donaldson’s crime becomes a focal point for the media, drawing attention to the broader issue of sexual assaults involving University of Montana students. The media coverage escalates when more survivors come forward, sharing harrowing experiences of sexual assault that often involve members of the university’s football team. Despite the serious allegations, university officials, including President Royce Engstrom, initially downplay the connection between the football team and the sexual assault crisis. However, as more cases surface and public outrage grows, Engstrom is forced to confront the issue more directly, leading to investigations and the release of the Barz Report, which highlights the urgent need for action and the pervasive culture of denial and victim-blaming in Missoula, particularly when it comes to allegations against popular athletes.

Cecilia Washburn is a junior at the University of Montana at the time of her alleged rape by Jordan Johnson, the school’s star quarterback. Initially hesitant to involve law enforcement, Washburn seeks medical care at the First Step Resource Center, where she undergoes a forensic exam. Despite her reluctance, she ultimately decides to report the assault to the university but not to the police, fearing media exposure.