Summary
In Missoula, Montana, a seemingly idyllic college town, Jon Krakauer investigates the disturbing reality of sexual assault on campus. The story unfolds through the experiences of several young women, including Allison Huguet, a former track star who was raped by a childhood friend and football player, Beau Donaldson. Krakauer details the events leading up to the assault, the emotional turmoil Allison endured in its aftermath, and her difficult decision to report the crime fifteen months later. The narrative highlights the complexities of acquaintance rape, where the victim and perpetrator often share a history of friendship and trust. This initial case sets the stage for a broader exploration of the justice system's response to sexual assault in Missoula.
Krakauer examines the challenges faced by other victims, such as Kelsey Belnap, who was allegedly gang-raped by four football players, and Kerry Barrett, who was sexually assaulted by a fellow student. Their stories reveal a pattern of underreporting, a reluctance among victims to come forward due to fear, shame, and a lack of confidence in the legal process. The book delves into the reasons behind this reluctance, exploring the social pressures, victim-blaming attitudes, and the often-traumatic experience of navigating the criminal justice system. The narrative also exposes the influence of the University of Montana's powerful football program and the challenges of holding athletes accountable for their actions.
The book details the investigations into these assaults, highlighting the shortcomings of both the university and local law enforcement. Krakauer describes the often-insensitive questioning of victims by police, the difficulty in gathering sufficient evidence, and the immense pressure on prosecutors to secure convictions. He explores the legal complexities of proving non-consensual sex, particularly when alcohol is involved, and the frequent dismissal of cases due to insufficient evidence or perceived inconsistencies in victims' testimonies. The book also covers the controversial University Court hearings, where students accused of rape are adjudicated by university officials, often with disparate outcomes.
The story takes a dramatic turn with the case of Jordan Johnson, the star quarterback of the Grizzlies, who is accused of raping Cecilia Washburn. Krakauer recounts the intense media scrutiny surrounding the case, the aggressive tactics employed by Johnson's defense team, and the conflicting accounts of what happened that night. The trial becomes a focal point of the book, illustrating the challenges of prosecuting high-profile athletes and the deep divisions within the Missoula community. The jury's eventual acquittal of Johnson further fuels the debate about justice and accountability in sexual assault cases.
The aftermath of the Johnson trial and the ongoing federal investigation into Missoula's handling of sexual assault cases expose systemic problems within the legal system and the university's response to such allegations. Krakauer examines the fallout from the scandal, including the firing of the university's head football coach and athletic director, the resignation of the chief deputy county attorney, and the implementation of new policies and procedures for handling sexual assault complaints. He explores the ongoing debate about the role of universities in adjudicating such cases and the importance of believing victims and providing them with support. The book concludes with a powerful reflection on the pervasiveness of sexual assault and the long-term impact on survivors, emphasizing the need for greater understanding, accountability, and systemic change.