When Autistics are Victims of Crime

People on the autism spectrum are often, sadly, the victims of crime and abuse. A general openness, lack of guile, and difficulty navigating social cues make autistic adults easy targets for harmful activity.

At AASCEND‘s July 16 meeting Gena Castro Rodriguez, PsyD, of the San Francisco District Attorney’s Office will speak about resources and strategies for people who have become crime victims. Gena is Chief of Victim Services and Parallel Justice at the Office of District Attorney George Gascón. The Victim Services Division of the San Francisco District Attorney’s Office serves nearly 8000 victims of crime each year. Gena will speak about the services, supports and resources available to help victims of crime mitigate the trauma, navigate the criminal justice system and rebuild their lives. Come with your own stories and learn how others have coped with their stories using these helpful services and tools.

We look forward to seeing you at this informative event. All are welcome and as always it’s free – with no donations turned away for presence of funds!

When: Sat July 16, 10am – noon
Where: The Arc of SF 1500 Howard St. @ 11th St.    SF, CA 94103  map

Parking is often available in the garage at 255 12th Street, with a reasonable flat rate for Saturdays. There is also metered street parking for $2/hr.


In other news, long-time AASCEND member and new author Anlor Davin is starting a basic meditation group for autistic and neurodiverse adults. The group will meet at Dominican University in San Rafael on first Saturdays of the month starting in October. Beginners and practitioners of all faiths or none are welcome. The group is free. See Autsit.net for details.