In a series of Instagram posts on Friday, Katie Thurston revealed that she had been raped and that the justice system had “failed” her. The 33-year-old TV personality, who appeared on season 17 of The Bachelorette, shared her experience with her followers, expressing her disappointment in the legal process while also offering resources and support to other victims.
Katie Thurston, 33, revealed that she was raped and that the justice system had “failed” her.
Thurston wrote, “It took 7 months for the San Diego Justice system to let me down as a victim of rape.” She continued, “The justice system continues to let down victims every day. I refuse to feel defeated in the strength it took to be an advocate for myself.” While Thurston is not yet ready to share the details of her experience, she wants to provide valuable resources that helped her during this difficult time.
The reality star shared a carousel of slides on her Instagram, opening up about her experience and offering resources to others.
After the assault, Thurston called 911 and underwent a SART exam. She praised the nurse and advocate who supported her during this process, describing them as “kind, nurturing, and patient.” She also prioritized her safety and well-being and sought mental health support while awaiting the exam results.
Thurston expressed gratitude for the support she received from the nurse and advocate.
In her posts, Thurston emphasized that she did everything she could as a victim, providing texts, calls, photos, and other evidence to support her case. Despite her efforts, she was met with warnings about the challenges of securing a guilty verdict in criminal court. Thurston shared her frustration at being “stopped” despite her determination to seek justice.
Thurston took steps to prioritize her safety and well-being during this difficult time.
Katie shared that she provided extensive evidence to support her case.
However, Thurston made it clear that she does not see this as a personal loss. She wrote, “I am safe. I am loved. I am supported.” She acknowledged that the failure lies within a broken system and encouraged others not to give up, emphasizing the importance of being one’s biggest advocate.
Thurston emphasized that she feels safe, loved, and supported despite the disappointing outcome.
Thurston also recommended the memoir Know My Name by Chanel Miller, which she found validating and informative. She expressed her gratitude to those who reached out to her and shared their own experiences. Social media users offered their support and appreciation for Thurston’s courage in speaking out.
Thurston encouraged others to be their biggest advocates and offered words of support.
Katie recommended Chanel Miller’s memoir Know My Name to others.
In a statement to Entertainment Tonight, Thurston said, “I’ve had ample support from my community, which allowed me to stay strong over these past seven months.” While disappointed with the outcome, she is focused on turning “pain into purpose” and helping other survivors of sexual assault.
Thurston first appeared on season 25 of The Bachelor and later starred in The Bachelorette in 2021, where she became engaged to Blake Moynes. The couple split in October 2021, and Thurston has since dated comedian Jeff Arcuri, whom she revealed as her partner earlier this month.
