About VOICES
Every survivor has a story. Every survivor’s journey to healing is unique. Through our work, OPDV has the privilege to meet and learn from many of these brave individuals.
In May of 2024, OPDV launched the VOICES: Survivor Stories educational series. The survivors featured here are sharing their stories in hopes of raising awareness and letting others who have had similar experiences know they are not alone. We are honored to work with and highlight New York State survivors.
Please be aware that the content in these videos may be upsetting for some viewers. Help is always available in New York State. If you would like to speak to someone, please reach out to the New York State Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline, Text: 844.997.2121, Call: 800.942.6906, or Chat: opdv.ny.gov.
Riley Basford
March 30, 2021, started like any regular day for fifteen-year-old Riley Basford. He fed his family’s cows and spent some time with family. Then he went to the orthodontist to get braces put on. A few hours later, Riley took his own life after being blackmailed by a fake online account, a victim of sextortion.
OPDV sat down with Riley's mom, Mary Rodee, to learn more about what happened leading up to the loss of her son. Since his death, Mary has made it her mission to raise awareness about sextortion and other dangers lurking online. She hopes sharing Riley’s story will empower other teens to Power Down the threat and Speak Up for themselves.
Joe Petito (Father of Gabby Petito)
Gabby Petito. Long Island native. Killed when she was just 22 years old, a victim of domestic violence. Her story made headlines. Turning grief into a call for action. OPDV sat down with Gabby Petito's dad to talk about his daughter and how he hopes her legacy can help save lives. Thank you, @GabbyPetitoFoundation, for sharing Gabby's story with us.