Oct 21, 2022
How can we increase our safety by building community? Today's guest, Lori Morrison, shares how we can improve safety in our communities from her experience as a licensed private investigator and host of a true crime podcast.
Lori relates how she ventured into her current profession as a private investigator after a neighbor went missing. She explains how our communities could benefit from reconnecting with one another and remaining aware of what is going on around us.
We discuss the boundaries between caring for our neighbors and imposing. Motivating by love, we can become safe places and watchful guardians without overstepping or becoming nosy.
Lori emphasizes the importance of speaking up and acting on anything we see that raises concern. She points out the greater danger of inaction leading to harm versus the small risk of embarrassment. Morrison states she has seen cases in which a neighbor calling about an unrecognized vehicle led to the arrest of a serial rapist.
Morrison encourages listeners to assess people without allowing titles or roles to create a false sense of security. She cites an example of a ministry leader who had children stay at his home overnight. If the behavior is inappropriate for someone without the title or role, it is inappropriate and deserves further investigation.
Lori recommends a minimum of six months' membership in a church before allowing someone to volunteer with children or youth. She emphasizes the need to look for the following red flags:
Lori explains the importance of situational awareness for ourselves and those in our communities. People who have been groomed or manipulated into unhealthy situations often fail to see danger. Opening our eyes and ears can help keep us and others safe.
We discuss the need for background checks as well as the need to remain vigilant of the fact that not all predators will be caught by a background check. Morrison recommends state and FBI background checks for due diligence.
Lori highlights the need to err on the side of safety because abuse cannot be undone.
Visit theunlovelytruth.com to access Lori's podcast, get resources, and check out her book.