SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (KY3) - Missouri recorded 3,262 reported sexual assaults in 2021, with 88% occurring in metropolitan areas, according to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.

“We want people to come forward, we want people to say this happened to me, I want to help other people,” said Cpl. Ralicia Tyler with the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

Statistics show that one in three women in Missouri will experience sexual violence during their lifetime. However, tracking the full scope of sexual assaults remains challenging.

“It’s hard to track how many sexual assaults happen. Overall, in the United States, the statistics say 20% are reported,” said Tara Benson, executive director of The Victim Center.

For reported cases, authorities must collect evidence quickly to build s

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