Rape: Does Culture in Tarpon Springs Promote It?

A little over a week ago, Tarpon Springs Police arrested Jared Alexander Alissandratos, 17, and charged him with sexual battery after he was accused of sexually assaulting a teenage girl during a party at his father's waterfront home in Tarpon Springs.

According to an arrest affidavit obtained by Patch, the assault happened around 1 a.m. on Saturday, April 13. The 15-year-old girl had been drinking and was taken to a room to lie down, where she was assaulted, the report said.

Days after the incident, Tarpon Springs Patch reader Tommy Frain posted a blog forefronting the topic of a rape culture forming within the community.

Rape culture is defined by West Virginia's Marshall University as:

"an environment in which rape is prevalent and in which sexual violence against women is normalized and excused in the media and popular culture. Rape culture is perpetuated through the use of misogynistic language, the objectification of women’s bodies, and the glamorization of sexual violence, thereby creating a society that disregards women’s rights and safety."

With April being Sexual Assault Awareness Month, the Huffington Post reported that the crime itself is a "reproductive justice issue."

An influx of tweets that include the text #FreeJared on Twitter are drawing attention from students, parents and observers on both sides of the issue:

• "To the ignorant kids saying #freejared and harassing the victim need to face the fact that this kid has to pay the consequence."
• "To all of you screaming #freejared - You'll get yours, too." 
• "Wish I could turn #freejared supporters into cookies and eat them. They wouldn't have mouths in which to spew out their disgusting sexism."
• “You just f***** up your life and his, good job. ‪#freejared”
• “Teen raped at tarpon springs house party...I dont know him but ‪#freejared"
• "Just face it...You're a slut ‪#freejared!!!!”

The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported some tips for changing rape culture, including the acceptance from a community in having one, being vocal about it and pushing for progression.

In the article, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch poses the question: "When did rape become a spectator sport among teens and adults?"

Do you think Tarpon Springs has a "rape culture?" Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Or, if you have more to say about the topic, post your own story. Just go to this page and write your post (if you don't have a Patch account you can create one using your email address).

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