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If I were the Smarts I wouldn't file civil charges either. Glad to see they won't be wasting their time. The criminal charges, however, are brought by the people of Utah and they have the final say on whether a preditor goes unprosecuted for his crimes. The DA may or may not need Elizabeth to testify. Don't kid yourselves about having enough to keep them in jail forever without prosecuting the sexual assault charges. They will get out with plenty of life left to harm another little girl. Using multiple convictions, the judge can sentence them to consecutive sentences and assure that he/they won't harm anybody else.

The victims in sexual assault cases are helpless while under the control of the perpetrator. Participating in the conviction of the individuals goes a long way in the healing process. The victims regain control over that portion of their lives. She will never forget the ordeal, never. Elizabeth will relive it everyday with or without the prosecution. Dealing with the memories and getting a sense of control back is the only way in which she will become whole again.