According to some disturbing statistics, one third of women will experience physical or sexual violence during their lifetime. The real number is higher because many times the crimes aren’t reported.

My friend, Ashley Spence, published her first book in January of 2025. “Silent Witness” is an unvarnished look at her life, the crime committed against her, and her recovery.

Ashley is one of the bravest women I have ever met. A lot of people call me themselves “activists,” yet never get active about anything. Ashley is the real deal. She has dedicated her life to bringing DNA legislation to life which is what led to her attacker getting caught, prosecuted and sentenced to 137 1/2 years in prison.

Every year Ashley testifies in legislatures all over the United States, sharing her story and reliving a horrific incident. And there are other challenges to consider. Ashley is a single parent to two young children which means there are many nights she is away from home. Yet she handles her responsibilities completely.

Many women suffer in silence. In my prison work I have met dozens of women who have been victims of rape and abuse. I have seen firsthand the pain they are living with. I encourage them to keep talking about what happened to them with someone they can trust. Bringing the horror into the light weakens any potential power it may have over them.

I encourage you to get the book. Some parts are hard as hell to read. But Ashley’s story is a great reminder that through finding forgiveness in our hearts, we find freedom…