Amidst the continuously growing Penn State sexual abuse scandal, Jerry Sandusky has reluctantly been referred to as a “nice guy” pedophile. Synonymous with their predatory approach to sexual abuse, “nice guy” pedophiles are often those who share a close relationship with young children. While their lewd and salacious acts against humanity remain appalling, their approach seemingly grooms victims into believing that nothing wrong has been done. According to the recent indictment, Mr. Sandusky reportedly used a charitable organization to gain access to his victims., where he would then sexually abuse them.
During his reign as one of the best defensive coordinators to grace college football, Sandusky established The Second Mile, a foundation dedicated to helping young children who are burdened with dysfunctional or absent families. The Second Mile challenges young people to achieve their potential as individuals and community members by providing opportunities for them to develop positive life skills. Dedicating a good portion of his time to the organization, Sandusky continued to build on his prestigious and generous reputation by helping those in need.
Unfortunately, The Second Mile provided Sandusky with a mechanism in which he could associate with young children on a constant basis. It was during his time at The Second Mile that his passion turned into a dangerous obsession. Subsequently, it was through the establishment of this organization that he found his victims. Pennsylvania Attorney General Linda Kelly says he used the organization to find his victims, calling Sandusky a sexual predator. It is believed that Sandusky used his reputation at The Second Mile to groom and manipulate his victims. He seemingly lowered their inhibitions while simultaneously seducing them with gifts and attention.
According to Ken Lanning, a former FBI agent in the behavioral science unit, “nice guy” pedophiles such as Sandusky target troubled children because they are more vulnerable. Their increased need for attention and affection only increases their vulnerability to sexual predators. Allegations leveled against Sandusky suggest that he used the vulnerable state of children at his organization to get closer to them. Once he had gained the trust of his victims, close relationships paved they way for lewd acts.
Using the “nice guy” approach that Sandusky had perpetuated at The Second Mile, children were tricked into believing that his heinous acts were not only acceptable, but gratifying. Lanning acknowledges that “the nicer you are, the longer you get away with the crime. It’s important in how they work. They spend more and more time with the kids then gradually start to convince themselves that they are helping them.”
On November 5, 2011, Sandusky was charged with eight counts of involuntary deviate sexual intercourse and numerous other charges, including aggravated indecent assault, corruption of minors and endangering the welfare of a child. Each of which allegedly stemmed from his association with The Second Mile.
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