Missoula Summary

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Here you will find a Missoula summary (Jon Krakauer's book).
We begin with a summary of the entire book, and then you can read each individual chapter's summary by visiting the links on the "Chapters" section.

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Last Updated: Monday 1 Jan, 2024

Missoula Summary Overview

The narrative starts with Allison Huguet, a resident of Missoula, Montana, who suffers sexual assault at the hands of Beau Donaldson, a local university football player. Football holds a high regard in the town and its players are often privileged. Beau and Allison, who share a close friendship akin to siblings, fall apart when, after a night of heavy partying in 2010, Allison finds herself being raped by Beau. Support from her friend Keely Williams helps Allison to coax a confession out of Beau for his crime, and after wrestling with the decision for over a year, she finally reports him to the police in an attempt to make him accept the severity of his actions. Throughout the process, Allison receives significant support from Detective Guy Baker, who expends great efforts to gather evidence for her case. They manage to secure a taped confession from Beau, marking a rare instance where police take a rape victim's story seriously. The narrative contrasts this with other rape victims in Missoula, who face apathy and disrespect from law enforcement. Among them are Kerry Barrett, Kaitlyn Kelly, and Kelsey Belnap, whose pleas for help are largely ignored by police and the local prosecutor's office who deem there's not enough proof to take their cases to court. However, Kaitlyn Kelly opts to report her rape to the University of Montana, leading to the expulsion of her perpetrator, Calvin Smith, based on a new evidence standard. Public prosecutor Kirsten Pabst’s support of Smith at his hearing shocks Kelly, leading to increased media scrutiny over how rape cases are handled in Missoula. This pressure leads to County Attorney Fred Van Valkenberg taking on Allison’s case, resulting in Beau receiving a maximum sentence. Later, despite her questionable past in prosecuting rape cases, Pabst enters private practice and successfully defends another rapist, Jordan Johnson, in court. Following Johnson’s trial, the U.S. Department of Justice makes recommendations on handling rape cases in Missoula, leading to significant changes in the local prosecutor's office and the eventual election of Pabst as County Attorney.

chapter 1

The narrative commences in 2012 during a festive Christmas gathering at a small business in Missoula. On scene, two police detectives make their presence known, notably Detective Guy Baker. He requests an audience with Allison Huguet, the business owner's daughter. They talk privately, where Baker reveals that he has arrested Beau Donaldson after he confessed to raping her. Unaware of the situation, Allison's father Kevin is taken aback and insists on knowing why the police are there to talk to his daughter. For the first time since the incident in 2010, Allison reveals to her father that she was assaulted by Beau. Her father is consumed by anger. Donaldson, Allison's close friend and a football player at the University of Montana, is the offender. Krakauer points out that the majority of rape victims typically don't come forward, with only a small percentage of such cases being reported to the police. The story's backdrop is then given focus. Montana, a sparsely populated but large state, has Missoula as its second biggest city with 70,000 inhabitants. The city is predominantly white and the University of Montana is its primary employer. The university's football team, the UM Grizzlies, play a significant role in shaping the culture of Missoula. However, allegations of sexual assaults by its members, notably a reported gang rape in 2010, raises serious concerns about the team and the university. A 2012 investigation by the University reveals that cases of sexual assault have been largely underreported. Shortly after, the U.S. Department of Justice launches its own investigation into the high number of sexual assault cases in Missoula, leading the media to label the city as America's “Rape Capital”. However, Krakauer's findings suggest that the incidence of rape in Missoula is slightly below the national average for cities of its size.

chapter 2

In this segment, the backgrounds of Allison Huguet and Beau Donaldson are provided, along with the recounting of the incident where Allison was sexually assaulted. Beau and Allison had a platonic relationship for over a decade, and their relationship was more sibling-like than romantic. Allison was attending Eastern Oregon University on a track and field scholarship. During a break in September 2010, she attended a party at Beau's place with an old schoolmate, Keely Williams. The party was filled with familiar faces, and the girls joined in the revelries, heavily indulging in alcohol. Beau was heavily drinking at the party as well. As the party wound down, Beau's roommate suggested the girls stay over, preventing them from driving home drunk. Keely found a vacant room with a bed and invited Allison to share it, but Allison chose to sleep on the couch, fully dressed, around 2 A.M. Two hours later, Allison awoke to find herself being raped by Beau, her clothes removed. Fearing his physical strength, she feigned sleep until he finished and left the room. Immediately after, she fled the house, calling her boyfriend and then her mother, Beth, when he didn't answer. During the call, Beau chased her, which she relayed in terrified screams to her mother. Fighting him off, she managed to escape when Beau gave up the chase. Beth arrived soon after to pick her up. Allison, remembering that Keely was still at the house, went back for her. Reflecting on the night, Keely expressed regret for not insisting Allison sleep in the bedroom with her. Allison however noted that they had no reason to suspect they were in any danger.

chapter 3

Beth Huguet helps Keely and Allison leave Beau Donaldson’s place, and accompanies Allison to the hospital for a rape kit. Allison describes the procedure as another violation but acknowledges its necessity despite the distress caused. Unbeknown to her father, Kevin, she attends a UM football game with him the following day where she sees Beau acting as if nothing has happened. This upsets her and she confides in Keely Williams about her turmoil and learns that Keely has also been a victim of rape. Krakauer details Keely’s rape incident, which bears striking similarities to Allison’s. After a night of partying at Portland State during her freshman year, Keely finds herself being violated by a friend. This shared trauma enables her to empathize deeply with Allison, inducing guilt for not having protected her friend better. Encouraged by Keely, Allison decides to confront Beau at her mother's house, hoping for a confession and considering recording their conversation without Beau's knowledge, despite its inadmissibility in court. Beau, accompanied by his pal Sam Erschler, admits to Allison and her mother, Beth, that he “took advantage” of Allison. Yet, both Allison and Beth question the genuineness of his apology. They recommend therapy to Beau and warn him that any future allegations will lead them to notify the police.

chapter 4

After her assault, Allison decides to pursue her university studies remotely from Missoula. Word gets around as far as Idaho that she and Beau had consensual intercourse. She warns Beau via text that she'll report him to the police if she hears more rumors of them sleeping together. He agrees to quell the gossip. The following year is a haze for Allison, filled with poor choices and a reluctance to acknowledge the impact of Beau's actions on her. In 2011, she relocates back to Oregon, where she skillfully suppresses her negative emotions until they're triggered. During a visit to Missoula in November 2011, she encounters Beau in a bar. She confides in her friend Carol about the rape, prompting Carol to order Beau to exit. Fresh from a football victory, Beau responds to Allison with a dismissive "fuck you." Allison and Carol promptly leave. Later that night, Allison reaches out to Detective Baker of the Missoula Police Department via email. As her former mentor on a high school SWAT operations project, Detective Baker offers to discuss the "situation" Allison vaguely describes in her email. However, she's hesitant to disclose the rape explicitly. While in Oregon, she keeps in touch with Detective Baker through emails. On a home visit to Missoula during Christmas break, she, Carol, and Beau’s friend Sam Erschler visit a bar. Irritated by thoughts of Beau, she impulsively offers Sam money to harm Beau. He declines, leading Allison to recognize that her suppressed emotions are influencing unhealthy thoughts. On December 16, 2011, she formally reports the rape to Detective Baker at the Missoula Police Department.

chapter 5

Gwen Florio, an experienced reporter, publishes two stories on a presumed gang rape involving the University of Montana (UM) football team in the Missoulian newspaper. This motivates Allison to report her rape and encourages another girl, Kelsey Belnap, to share her experience with Florio. Krakauer narrates Belnap's ordeal from December 2010, when she became incapacitated after consuming 11 shots at a football player's apartment. She regains consciousness in a room with her friend Betsy Fairmont and football player Benjamin Styron in the middle of a sexual act. Four footballers one after another, exploit her incapacitated state and sexually assault her. Belnap later reports her rape to a nurse at the hospital, a shaken police officer then records her statement. Her boyfriend later escorts her to another hospital to collect a rape kit. The following day, a law enforcement officer contacts Belnap to inquire if she wants to file a rape case, which she does. However, Detectives Baker and Mark Blood, who record her statement at the police station, display skepticism and treat her like "just another drunk girl." Detective Baker's questioning style makes her feel guilty about cheating her boyfriend, which she didn't. The investigation stalls as the detectives wait for the football players to return from the Christmas break. Fairmont, Belnap's friend, covers for the football players by stating that the sex was consensual, which aligns with the footballers' statements. Despite the odds, Detective Baker denies any probable cause for filing criminal charges. Concurrently, Detective Baker procures a warrant to tap a conversation between Allison and Beau, leading to Beau's admission of rape and his subsequent arrest. However, Beau's arrest is met with backlash from Grizzly fans on the online forum, eGriz.com, who lay the blame on Florio and make derogatory comments about women.

chapter 6

Part Two of Missoula, "Before the Law Sits a Gatekeeper," recounts an incident of sexual assault involving Kerry Barrett, a senior at the University of Montana (UM), in September 2011. After meeting fellow student Zeke Adams at a bar, they return to his residence where Kerry declares they won't be having sex. However, she wakes up later in the night to find her pants pulled down and Adams in a compromising position. Encouraged by her father, she reports the incident to the local police department. Her initial interaction with the police, however, is off-putting as she's questioned in a public area of the station about her expectations from her complaint. Despite this, she guides officers to Adams' apartment, where a mostly unresponsive Adams demands legal counsel. Days later, Detective Jamie Merifield interviews Adams at the police department. Despite his distress, Adams denies any wrongdoings. Detective Mansfield, seeming sympathetic to Adams, dismisses the case as a misunderstanding. Following the dismissal of the case, Barrett is informed that there isn't enough evidence to proceed with prosecution. Overwhelmed by the incident and its aftermath, Barrett spirals into depression, neglects her academic responsibilities, and engages in reckless behavior. She confides in Krakauer about a common pattern among sexual assault victims: a tendency towards self-destructive promiscuity. Krakauer concludes the chapter citing Judith Lewis Herman's book, Trauma and Recovery. She suggests that survivors of trauma often have a repetition compulsion, making them re-live aspects of their traumatic experience.

chapter 7

The seventh section of "Missoula" discusses a sexual assault involving two University of Montana students, Kaitlyn Kelly and Calvin Smith. They have a chance meeting outside Kelly's dorm at the early hours of October 1, 2011, and her friend encourages a hookup. In her dorm room, they find her roommate and roommate's boyfriend asleep. Kelly refuses Smith's suggestion to keep quiet and continue, but he forcefully penetrates her. He departs later, taking Kelly's pants with him. She wakes up traumatized to find blood on her bed and wall. She doesn't realize she's been sexually assaulted until she talks with her friend the next day. Another victim of sexual assault, Kerry Barrett, learns about Kelly's ordeal and prompts campus security to secure the surveillance footage from Kelly's dorm. Kelly resolves to inform campus police of the incident, which leads her to the Missoula Police Department and into an interview with Detective Connie Brueckner. Brueckner questions why Kelly did not scream or shout during the assault, disregarding studies which indicate that victims often feel paralyzed and scared. Next, Brueckner interviews Smith, who claims it was consensual. She switches off her recorder and asks him about his mental health, assuring him he won't face prosecution. Despite the presence of physical evidence, Brueckner later informs Kelly that the evidence is insufficient for prosecution.

chapter 8

Calvin Smith is informed in October by the University of Montana's Dean of Students, Charles Couture, that he's under investigation for allegedly raping Kaitlyn Kelly, a violation of the university's student conduct code. After an interview with Dean Couture, Smith is presented with a list of evidence against him, resulting in his expulsion. Unwilling to accept this, Smith appeals the decision to the University Court. Jon Krakauer elaborates the evidential standard used to determine Smith's guilt. In 2011, the U.S. Department of Education sent a letter, known as the “Dear Colleague Letter,” to colleges and universities, stating that if over half the evidence suggests a student committed rape, they should be found guilty. This is referred to as a “preponderance of evidence,” a less stringent standard compared to the “beyond a reasonable doubt” standard used in criminal courts. Krakauer notes this is fitting for universities as their severest penalty is expulsion, not incarceration. Smith is allowed a lawyer at his University Court hearing, although the lawyer can only advise, not represent. His primary witness is Kirsten Pabst, the Missoula County Attorney’s Office's chief prosecutor. Despite never conferring with Kaitlyn Kelly about the incident, Pabst testifies on Smith's behalf, explaining her decision to not charge Smith with rape and why she believes his expulsion would be unjust. Regardless of her testimony and statements from Smith’s parents, the University Court concludes Kelly withdrew her consent thrice during the evening, rendering Smith guilty of rape. His expulsion is upheld. While Kelly and her family are relieved Smith faces consequences, they are disappointed in the Missoula Police Department and Attorney’s Office for not holding Smith more accountable.

chapter 9

Ex-policeman Kevin Barrett, father to Kerry Barrett, voices dissatisfaction about his daughter's case management to Missoula Police Chief Mark Muir. He questions if the local police are adhering to the right procedures, suggesting they're dismissive of rape victims rather than presuming their honesty. Despite promising to meet Kerry Barrett and Kaitlyn Kelly, and attentively hearing their concerns, Chief Muir doesn't take action. Post-meeting, he sends the girls an article arguing half of rape accusations are untrue. The idea that there's a surge of false rape allegations in America is debunked by Krakauer, who presents Brian Banks' case as an example. Banks, wrongfully accused and jailed for rape, saw his NFL future ruined, only to be exonerated when his accuser confessed to fabrication. Krakauer admits that false accusations occur but emphasizes their rarity, citing research showing only 2-10% of accusations are false. He labels the idea of rampant false accusations as misleading, pointing out that rape is the least reported and prosecuted serious crime, and 90% of rapists go unpunished. Spurred by Gwen Florio’s rape-focused articles, Chief Muir is asked to speak at a public forum, video-recorded by Missoula City Council in January 2012. Both he and Kerry Barrett speak, Kerry criticizes the county prosecutor Kirsten Pabst for testifying at a university hearing for rapist Calvin Smith. In response, County Attorney Fred Van Valkenberg insists Pabst was morally obliged to testify. Kerry counters, arguing Pabst had no moral obligation to protect a rapist. Later, in talks with Krakauer, she lauds Gwen Florio for shedding light on the police and the county attorney's office.

chapter 10

David Lisak's research forms the basis of the beginning of Chapter 10, revealing that most sexual assaults, around 85%, occur between people who know each other. Furthermore, a significant proportion of these attacks are led by repeated perpetrators, with a small number of individuals being responsible for a large majority of rapes within a community. Frequently, these serial rapists blend into society, often unaware that their actions, such as engaging in sex with an unconscious woman, are, in fact, rape. Lisak presents a video to Krakauer, which is a reenactment of an interview he had with a recurrent sexual offender. In this recording, an alias-college student “Frank” nonchalantly recounts his sexual exploits, which include getting women at his fraternity extremely drunk before sexually assaulting them. The issue, as concluded by Krakauer, lies in the fact that those with the power to hold such individuals accountable often fail to view people like “Frank” as violent criminals.

chapter 11

Part Three of "Missoula" titled "Unwanted Attention" delves into the growing worry about sexual assaults in 2012. We learn of Beau Donaldson's arrest, a headline story in the local newspaper. Shortly afterwards, another article reveals an unnamed female student who was reportedly raped outside her dormitory after possibly being drugged. By the end of January, an independent investigation into university sexual assaults concludes the university has been negligent and calls for instant action. Krakauer then narrates a disturbing incident involving a Saudi student, who tricks two women to visit his room separately. He attempts to rape the first and succeeds with the second. The university’s failure to inform the police immediately allows the student to slip out of the country, sparking public outrage. The university president, Royce Engstrom, asserts that the institution must shield rape victims by withholding their identities from the police. However, Krakauer points out that the law regarding this issue is rather ambiguous, and the instruction from the Dear Colleague Letter for universities to swiftly investigate rape cases is unclear. In March 2012, news emerges that a restraining order has been issued to UM quarterback Jordan Johnson following an alleged sexual assault. Krakauer rewinds to describe the incident in detail. Johnson and his alleged victim, Cecilia Washburn, share a flirtatious rapport. They spend a night together watching a movie, but when Washburn rebuffs Johnson's sexual advances, he overpowers and rapes her. Washburn confides in a friend about the incident and drives Johnson out of her home, leaving her roommate to notice her distress.

chapter 12

Upon regaining consciousness in her bedroom on the 5th of February, Cecilia Washburn confides in a comrade who accompanies her to a medical center. There, a rape kit is administered and she chooses to report the incident to the University of Montana, though not to the authorities. Subsequently, Jordan Johnson receives a letter indicating he's under university probe for infringing the UM Student Conduct Code clause against rape. Johnson's cohabitant chauffeurs him to Coach Robin Pflugard's home where Johnson discloses the investigation, asserting the intercourse was consensual. Following Johnson's departure, Pflugard contacts the athletic director, Jim O’Day, and the sports department rallies behind Johnson. In the ensuing month, Washburn crosses paths with Johnson on campus and suffers from an anxiety attack, prompting her to request a restraining order. Despite the allegations, Coach Pflugard persists in permitting Johnson to participate in football practices. He expresses to reporter Gwen Florio the team's elation to have Johnson amongst them. Washburn's legal counsel, Josh Van de Wetering, communicates his concerns to UM's president Royce Engstrom about Pflugard's nonchalance towards the serious claims against Johnson. In response, Engstrom terminates both Pflugard and Jim O'Day. The football team reacts by publishing an open letter online, mourning the loss of their coach. However, Krakauer highlights the letter's lack of empathy for victims, despite acknowledging the charges' effects on the team. The U.S. Department of Justice revealed on May 1 that a federal inquiry is underway to scrutinize the handling of sexual abuse cases by University of Montana, Missoula Police Department, and the County Attorney’s Office.

chapter 13

Chapter 13 continues with Allison Huguet's account. Rumors circulate that Beau had prior sexual assault allegations. The book recounts an incident in Missoula in 2008; Beau had attacked a woman named Hillary McLaughlin, who was visiting from Great Falls. At a party, Beau clings to McLaughlin, despite just meeting her. Later, he enters her room, locks the door, undresses and forcefully presses himself against McLaughlin. Her screams alert her friends, who eventually manage to break into the room and pull Beau away. McLaughlin is deeply traumatized by the experience and begins to question if she was at fault, leading to severe anxiety. In 2012, Detective Baker locates McLaughlin, asking for her statement. Despite the incident being years ago, she confers with her family, deciding to give a statement to bolster Allison's case and possibly prevent Beau from committing another assault. She submits her statement in Missoula, marking a positive turn for Allison's case, given that juries are more likely to convict repeat offenders.

chapter 14

In the beginning of 2012, Beau gets out of jail and the prosecution of Allison's case is in the hands of Deputy County Attorney, Shaun Donovan. Donovan proposes a plea deal for Beau with a mild punishment in exchange for a guilty plea. However, Allison is adamant that they fight for a more severe sentence. She expresses worries about Donovan's previous work relationship with Beau’s attorney, Milt Datsopoulos, fearing that it may affect the rigor of her prosecution. Donovan also advises Allison to refrain from talking to federal investigators, arguing it could adversely affect her case. Allison disputes this, believing such actions might pressure Beau and Datsopoulos into agreeing to a plea deal with a severe sentence. Months pass with the case dragging on. In June, Allison attends her sister’s bachelorette party and a confrontation takes place at a bar with Beau’s friends, including Sam Erschler and Beau’s elder brother, Brady Donaldson. Erschler warns one of Allison's friends to avoid them, leading to tensions escalating. Threats are shouted at the girls by Brady and others, including a demand for them to leave town and a death threat. This event hardens Allison's resolve to push for a severe sentence for Beau. In a meeting with Donovan and Detective Baker, Allison is cautioned about the difficulties of testifying against Datsopoulos. Donovan maintains he won't push for a certain sentence just because it's what Allison desires, reminding her that the law doesn't obligate him to prosecute based on a victim's preferences.

chapter 15

Krakauer narrates the skepticism surrounding Allison's account, with some suggesting she fabricated the story for attention. She's plagued by nightmares, one of which involves Beau, her alleged assaulter, whom she attempts to save from drowning, only for him to submerge her instead. Allison's ordeal with the Missoula County Attorney’s Office worsens her post-traumatic stress. In a meeting with them in September 2012, Shaun Donovan suggests a maximum sentence of thirty years for Beau, with twenty suspended. Despite concerns over the suggested penalty's severity, Allison and her relatives highlight that Beau could be out on parole in two and a half years with a ten-year sentence. They reluctantly agree to the deal, but Allison remains dissatisfied. Articles on Allison's case, penned by Gwen Florio among others, quote both Donovan and Beau’s attorney, Milt Datsopoulos. Allison perceives Datsopoulos's comments as defending Beau's actions and is disappointed by Donovan's lack of advocacy for a severe sentence. Consequently, she sends a compelling email to County Attorney Fred Van Valkenberg, leading to a meeting that includes her family and Detective Baker. In the late September 2012 meeting, the family expresses gratitude for Donovan's plea deal but worries about his commitment to pushing for the maximum sentence. Van Valkenberg agrees to prosecute the case, leaving Allison to speculate whether the media coverage and Department of Justice investigation influenced this decision.

chapter 16

The narrative continues with Jordan Johnson and Cecilia Washburn. On receiving a no contact order in 2012, Johnson's lawyer, David Paoli, hires a private detective to monitor Washburn's residence. When Washburn departs, Paoli interviews her housemates despite Dean Couture's objections. Johnson is then summoned to Couture's office for an inquiry, with Paoli and UM lawyer David Aronofsky present. Paoli criticizes Couture's harsh attitude and insists on using the outdated "clear and convincing" evidence standard as the Student Conduct Code has not been revised. Couture and Aronofsky dismiss this as a minor point, not a legal necessity for the institution. By March end, Couture informs Johnson via letter that the University has found considerable evidence of Johnson's guilt. Johnson challenges this decision, resulting in an administrative meeting with Vice President of Student Affairs Teresa Branch. Paoli claims bias in Couture's investigation and repeats his stance on the evidence standard. Branch, however, rejects Johnson's appeal, leading him to approach the University Court. Despite Paoli’s attempts to postpone the Trial, it proceeds on May 10. The University Court deems Johnson guilty and decides to expel him. Paoli takes the case to the higher education authorities, resulting in Commissioner Clayton Christian directing the university to reassess Johnson’s case using the “clear and convincing evidence” standard. The case reopens under the new dean of students, Rhondie Voorhees, in July 2012. Voorhees declares Johnson innocent. The decision leads to criticism from the U.S. Department of Education and Justice for using the outdated evidence standard. Washburn is left with no option to contest Dean Voorhees’ verdict.

chapter 17

Part Four, Scales of Justice, commences with the postponement of Beau's hearing until January 2013. Just days before, Fred Van Valkenberg informs Allison, her family, and Beau's second victim, Hillary McLaughlin, about the delay. Hillary is uncertain about testifying. Beau's hearing, conducted by Judge Karen Townsend, takes place on January 11, 2014, drawing a large crowd of supporters for both parties and curious Missoula residents. Kevin Huguet lashes out at Beau during his testimony, labeling him a serial offender, and demanding the harshest possible sentence. His raw emotion leads to a reprimand from the judge. Keely Williams follows, narrating the details of the party and depicting the former friendship between Beau and Allison. Hillary McLaughlin musters the courage to testify in support of Allison, albeit via a video link due to harsh winter weather. She details a past assault by Beau and the subsequent years of anxiety she endured. Beth Huguet then recalls Allison's childhood and her innocent bond with Beau prior to the incident. She also tells the court about the night she found Allison after the assault. Responding to Van Valkenberg, Beth underscores Beau's failure to adequately own up to his actions post the crime.

chapter 18

Allison bravely takes the stand, recalling the terrifying night she was raped by Beau. She was petrified to fight back against her imposing attacker. She shares her fear of contracting an STD since Beau didn't use protection. She divulges her tormented experience over the past year, describing it as "hell." She wishes for Beau to seek help and experience the emotional trauma he caused her before leading a meaningful life. Beau's lawyer, Milt Datsopoulos, condescendingly cross-examines Allison, to which she firmly states she no longer recognizes Beau and believes he requires psychiatric aid and prison time. Katie Burton, the concluding prosecution witness, is a prosecutor who recommended a 30-year sentence with ten years suspended for Beau. She believes a man who raped a sleeping woman, particularly with close family ties involved, should face jail time. She acknowledges that with appropriate treatment for chemical dependence and sexual offenses, Beau could be up for parole in two and a half years. When asked about Montana's Boot Camp Program as an alternate punishment, Burton clarifies that unlike imprisonment, the program lacks sex-offender treatment.

chapter 19

The defense starts presenting their witnesses, beginning with Beau's former high school football coach, Bob Eustace. Eustace recalls Beau as a respectful young man with a strong sense of empathy. The assault Beau committed against Allison strikes him as out of character. When cross-examined by Van Valkenberg, Eustace opines that Beau needs treatment rather than imprisonment, but admits to feeling heartbroken for Allison. The judge's inquiry about Beau's suitable punishment is deflected by Eustace, who insists on the need for treatment and supervision. Allison Huguet and Keely Williams are unsettled by a former teacher's support for Beau. John Peterson, Beau's ex-employer, is the following witness. Peterson praises Beau's work ethic and respectful demeanor. He wishes he could erase the incident, believing Beau is deserving of punishment, but not imprisonment. Asked by Datsopolous if he would rehire Beau, Peterson affirms that he would. During the cross-examination, Van Valkenberg questions how Peterson would react if Beau had violated his daughter. Peterson concedes that his response would resemble Kevin Huguet's testimony.

chapter 20

The proceeding continues with Datsopoulos bringing forward two psychologists, Dr. Robert Page and Dr. Jim Meyers, appointed by the defense and the prosecution, respectively. Both professionals concur that Beau's likelihood to commit the same crime again is minimal, but admit under the prosecutor's questioning that Beau had tried to portray the sexual act with Allison as mutual consent during their consultancy sessions. Dr. Page concedes during cross-examining that it aids victims' recovery when their assailants face punishment. Dr. Myers points out that Beau was not truthful about his progress in a drug treatment program. Beau's father, Larry Donaldson, is the next to testify, asserting his family's non-involvement in the defaming of Allison post the incident, attributing Beau's misdeeds to alcohol. Beau then takes the stand expressing his apologies to everyone affected, especially Allison and her family. Following his short testimony, Van Valkenberg delivers his closing argument. He accuses Beau of deceit, recommending a sentence of 30 years with a 20-year suspension. Datsopoulos, in his closing remarks, proposes a lesser sentence of five years at the Department of Corrections, equating to six months to one year in prison. Asked by Judge Townsend if he wishes to add anything, Beau remains silent. The Judge sentences him to state prison for thirty years, with twenty years suspended. Beau breaks down, and his girlfriend shrieks from the audience. Hillary McLaughlin later shares with Krakauer her regret of not coming forward earlier, speculating if her action could have saved Allison from the assault.

chapter 21

The fifth part of the book kicks off with Cecilia Washburn accusing Jordan Johnson of having non-consensual sex with her, known legally in Montana as rape, on March 16, 2012. A surprising turn of events is the involvement of Kirsten Pabst, a former prosecutor, in Johnson's defense team in August 2012. Pabst, who had once served as the chief deputy Missoula County attorney, had left her job to establish her law firm and later joined forces with David Paoli to defend Johnson. She tries to have the case against Johnson thrown out due to insufficient evidence, a tactic she had used before when handling rape cases as a prosecutor. However, her motion is rejected. In February 2013, Milt Datsopoulos, who previously represented Beau, expresses concern in interviews with the New York Times and ESPN that Johnson might not get a fair trial after Beau's conviction. Pat Williams, a member of the Montana Board of Regents, publicly criticizes the football team as part of the problem at the University of Montana (UM) campus. This instigates UM football enthusiasts to launch a petition demanding Williams' removal from the board of regents. Johnson's trial initiates on February 11, 2013. Special Deputy Missoula County Attorney, Adam Duerk, delivers the opening statement for the prosecution. He emphasizes that the trial's sole focus is Johnson and the accusation of rape against him. He advises the jury not to let discussions about the UM football team or Cecilia Washburn distract them and to concentrate on determining whether Washburn's or Johnson's account is more believable.

chapter 22

Krakauer dissects Kirsten Pabst's declaration of a 99% prosecution success rate on her site, noting that such an accomplishment can only be achieved by avoiding challenging cases. In the defense for Johnson, Pabst presents him as a reserved and mannerly individual, downplaying his partying and drinking habits. She portrays Cecilia Washburn as an attention-seeking, emotionally unstable individual who grew interested in Johnson just as he rose to prominence as the University of Montana's first-string quarterback. Under Montana's Rape Shield Law, Pabst is restricted from discussing how Washburn told Johnson she was attracted to him the preceding night to the alleged rape. Pabst then narrates Johnson's account of the incident, asserting that Washburn did not experience a sexual assault but was simply dissatisfied with their consensual intimacy. Pabst attributes Washburn's accusations to feelings of regret, the media spotlight and the influence of federal investigators. She adds that Washburn saw the media uproar as an opportunity to grab attention by accusing Johnson, who, according to Pabst, didn't reciprocate her desire for a relationship.

chapter 23

Cecilia Washburn, the primary witness in the rape trial of Jordon Johnson, spends a day describing the incident to Joel Thompson, a prosecutor. David Paoli, Johnson's lawyer, cross-examines her next, questioning whether she wished harm upon Johnson, as her previous statements suggest. He attempts to portray her as vengeful and emotionally volatile. Under his probing, it is revealed that she dreamt about being assaulted by a University of Montana football player in 2011. The player, according to Paoli, was an NFL draftee. Paoli deliberately omits mentioning that the same player faced a trial for violence and was linked to Washburn's boyfriend's roommate. Paoli cites a statement from Washburn's housemate, Stephen Green, which claims that she consumed food between the rape and driving Johnson home, a fact she denies. He also challenges her assertion that she unequivocally refused Johnson's sexual advances, referencing messages she sent post-assault where she blamed herself. When Paoli concludes his cross-examination, Thompson resumes questioning Washburn. He asks her about her intentions behind sharing her ordeal with friends, to which she responds, sharing her "crazy thoughts." Responding to further queries, she admits she could have been more assertive or aggressive with Johnson but maintains she did refuse his advances. She asserts she has no intention of exploiting her claim for gain; she merely seeks justice.

chapter 24

Dr. David Lisak is summoned as the second witness for the prosecution. He is questioned by Joel Thompson regarding prevalent misunderstandings about rape. Dr. Lisak explains that contrary to popular belief, over ninety percent of rapes are committed by known individuals rather than strangers. He emphasizes that the psychological impact is equally traumatic in either case. He also indicates that the perceived characteristics of a rapist are often misleading, and they might even come across as shy. The commonly held belief that a female victim would fight back during rape is not always accurate. In most cases, fear dominates, leading to non-resistance. The fear might be rooted in the possibility of further harm if they resist. Post-rape, victims often experience confusion and even blame themselves. This concludes Thompson's questioning. Kirsten Pabst then cross-questions Dr. Lisak, introducing him as a “former professor from Massachusetts” who earns by testifying for rape victims. She suggests that his childhood experiences of sexual abuse make him biased towards victims. Dr. Lisak agrees that uncomfortable or disappointing sexual encounters are not always rape, and depending on the relationship, even a smile could be taken as consent. Pabst queries if there's a chance that Washburn's report was fabricated, to which Dr. Lisak responds that anything is conceivable.

chapter 25

Steven Green, Cecilia Washburn's roommate testifies during the prosecution's questioning, mentioning that Washburn never expressed any romantic interest in Johnson. He shares his confusion and alarm upon receiving a text from Washburn where she suspects she might've been raped. He recalls her crying intensely after she returned from dropping Johnson off, expressing her wish to keep the incident a secret. He, however, encouraged her to report it to the police. During cross-examination, Green mentions Washburn's aversion to limelight post the incident and her preference for solitude. Claire Francoeur, the nurse practitioner who examined Washburn at the First Step center, testifies that the medical examination results corroborated with sexual assault. The jury is shown a video of the harm inflicted on Washburn's genitals. David Paoli criticizes Francoeur for not reviewing the medical literature he asked her to during his cross-examination. His criticism attempts to portray Francoeur as incompetent. Prosecutor Adam Duerk's re-examination of Francoeur leads to her confirming that there was nothing to suggest that Washburn's injuries were inflicted prior to the alleged assault. Following an objection from Paoli and a brief discussion with the judge, Paoli and Duerk engage in a silent standoff in the center of the courtroom. Connie Brueckner, the primary investigator for the Johnson case from the Missoula Police Department, is next on the stand. During his cross-examination, Paoli insinuates that Brueckner did not make sufficient efforts to seek evidence that might have absolved Johnson. He further suggests an inappropriate friendship between Brueckner and Washburn. Paoli debates that the protocol instructing Missoula police officers to believe a sexual assault victim until all evidence is collected compromises their objectivity, which Brueckner denies. Paoli and Pabst had previously tried to dismiss the case on the grounds of this new protocol, alleging that it violates the presumption of innocence. However, they were reminded that this principle only applies during a trial, not during a police investigation.

chapter 26

The defense starts presenting its witnesses. Michael McGowan, team chaplain, is the first to testify. He speaks highly of Johnson, painting him as humble and respectful. However, when questioned further, he concedes that these commendable attributes don't prevent someone from crime. Soon after, Johnson himself goes to the stand, where he maintains a calm and collected demeanor while sharing details about his family life. Court proceedings are halted for the day, continuing the next with an unexpected break in Johnson's testimony for Pastor Rudy Herr from Oregon to testify. Herr speaks to Johnson's honesty and remarkable self-control. Johnson returns to the stand afterward, where he is questioned by Kirsten Pabst. He insists that Washburn never showed any sign of retracting her consent during their sexual encounter, mentioning she only said, “Oh, you’re bad,” in a tone he interpreted as encouraging. He maintains that Washburn appeared fine post-intercourse. Later, prosecutor Adam Duerk cross-examines Johnson, probing into the details of their sexual encounter. Johnson confesses he had Washburn held down on the bed during the act, but continues to claim the sex seemed completely consensual. Duerk questions Johnson about the message Washburn sent after the incident, expressing she might have been raped. Johnson agrees the message was unusual, conceding that Washburn's account would align with the message but continues to deny her narrative. He also agrees that a woman does have the right to withdraw consent during sex. Following Johnson’s testimony, his father Marty Johnson takes the stand. He speaks about their tight-knit family and how devastating the accusation has been for them, equating it to one of the worst possible things to happen to a family.

chapter 27

The trial's last day sees Dr. David Bell, a witness for the prosecution, affirming that Cecilia Washburn displayed all the traits of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Kirsten Pabst and David Paoli, however, bring in their own psychiatrist, Dr. William Stratford, who contends that Washburn's symptoms don't warrant a PTSD diagnosis. As prosecutor Suzy Boylan wraps up for the prosecution, she emphasizes that this case revolves around the contrast between being violated by an acquaintance versus a stranger. She further stresses that the state's task is to establish the defense's guilt beyond reasonable doubt, not erase every possible doubt. Boylan asserts that Jordan Johnson, regardless of his seemingly decent character, inflicted physical and mental damage on Washburn which equates to a crime. In his closing, defense attorney David Paoli argues that the truth doesn't need an expert from Boston. He references a text message from Washburn suggesting uncertainty about whether she was violated. He questions whether Johnson could be aware of her consent if she herself wasn't sure. With a life-sized cardboard cutout, Paoli attempts to prove that Johnson couldn't have physically restrained Washburn as she claimed, insinuating a crude reenactment of the assault. He suggests Johnson is being prosecuted due to his position as the UM quarterback. Prosecutor Joel Thompson counters in his rebuttal. He discards the defense's argument of needing an expert, accusing them of exploiting the jury’s lack of understanding about sexual assault. He maintains that Johnson was resolute about having sex, regardless of Washburn's objections. Thompson argues, Johnson's inability to explain Washburn's text reinforces the fact that she was violated. He concludes his counterargument.

chapter 28

Following Thompson's counterarguments, the jury convenes to make their decision. They return in less than two and a half hours with a not guilty verdict for Jordan Johnson, all while most are still away for lunch. Johnson's fans immediately start posting messages of support on the Missoulian Twitter account. Some posts make disparaging comments about Washburn, while others argue that women who falsely accuse men of rape should be imprisoned. When asked his opinion on the verdict, Missoula County Attorney Fred Van Valkenberg clarifies that the jury declared Johnson not guilty but not necessarily innocent. Kirsten Pabst later expresses her views on her blog, criticizing the attorney's office for pursuing a case she believes was devoid of legal substance. Post-trial, Joanne Fargo, a juror, shares her perspective on the deliberations with Krakauer. She admits to considering the possibility that Johnson raped Washburn, yet she believes the defense successfully cast doubt regarding Johnson's knowledge of the non-consensual nature of the act. Johnson's claim that Washburn moaned seemed to significantly influence the jury. Even though Fargo stands by the jury's decision, she admits to being frustrated and even feels the behaviour of Paoli and Pabst was dramatic and theatrical. She describes jury duty as a taxing experience, and was constantly bombarded by people sharing their thoughts on the trial. She laments that most people still hold archaic views on rape, believing it has to involve a stranger jumping out of the bushes, or the victim must fight the assailant to their death.

chapter 29

As Part Six of "Missoula" titled “Aftershocks” unfolds, Pat Williams, a Montana Regent, criticizes the university's practice of enlisting “thugs” into their football team prior to Jordan Johnson’s trial. After Johnson gets acquitted, Williams pens an article for the Missoulian, defending his earlier remarks. Johnson’s lawyer, David Paoli, retaliates by calling Williams’ comments racist and potentially damaging to Johnson’s trial. Montana Supreme Court Justice Terry Trieweiler enters the feud, accusing Paoli of race-baiting and pointing out the diverse criminality throughout the football team. Subsequently, in April 2013, Pat Williams is voted off the Montana Board of Regents. Following Johnson’s trial, Allison Huguet learns from the evening news about Beau Donaldson seeking a sentence review from the Montana Supreme Court. Although Donaldson has relinquished his rights for an appeal or sentence review by signing his plea, a hearing takes place in May 2013, where Donaldson and his attorney, Milt Datsopoulos, state that his punishment doesn’t provide him ample chances for rehabilitation. Allison testifies, questioning how Donaldson managed a review while also arguing for his deserving punishment due to his criminal history. Hillary McLaughlin also testifies, recounting the rape by Donaldson that shattered her sense of safety, leaving her constantly afraid. Their arguments are supported by Fred Van Valkenberg. Despite the ongoing rumors in Missoula accusing her of falsely charging Donaldson and wrecking his life, the review committee upholds Beau’s original sentence.

chapter 30

Fred Van Valkenberg declined to participate in the investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice concerning the handling of sexual assault allegations. While both the Missoula Police Department and the University of Montana fully cooperated, Valkenberg argued that the Department of Justice lacked the legal power to look into the practices of the Missoula County Attorney’s Office. Michael Cotter, the U.S. Attorney for Montana, proposed a compromise to the Attorney's Office which included hiring victim advocates and meeting with each sexual assault reporter. Valkenberg reacted by filing a lawsuit, disputing the Department of Justice's authority over his office. In rebuttal, the Department of Justice published a comprehensive report shedding light on the repeated shortcomings in prosecuting sexual assault cases by Valkenberg's office. The report from the Department of Justice highlighted multiple instances of insensitive conduct by Valkenberg’s team of prosecutors. Female victims recounted their experiences with the office as “traumatic.” The report cautioned that the Missoula County Attorney's Office's failure to bring charges jeopardized the safety of Missoula's women. Aside from not prosecuting the majority of non-stranger sexual assaults in Missoula County, the office also didn't provide the necessary evidence guidelines to the police department for investigators to compile sufficient evidence for trial.

chapter 31

Fred Van Valkenburg, who has initiated a lawsuit against the Department of Justice, makes it known that he will not run for Missoula County Attorney again after his term completes in 2014. Deciding to run for this position is Kirsten Pabst, a former employee of the Missoula County Attorney’s Office who seldom acted against rape accusations and even stood up for alleged rapists such as Calvin Smith. She believes that the office needs "more compassion". A large portion of the cases highlighted in the Department of Justice report were managed by Pabst. Victims in this report recount the distress caused by their dealings with the attorney’s office. Pabst argues that her intention was to enhance the office's approach to rape cases, but she was hindered by the authorities. Jordan Johnson, despite facing a rape trial, remains a beloved figure in Missoula, and Pabst's participation in Johnson’s defense team gains her popularity. She emerges victorious in a race against lawyer Josh Van de Wetering. Once Pabst assumes her new role, Van Valenberg drops his lawsuit against the Department of Justice.

chapter 32

Krakauer holds the University of Montana, the Missoula Police Department, and the Missoula County Attorney’s Office responsible for the rape crisis in Missoula. He critiques the University for its ambiguous sexual assault policies, though he acknowledges their efforts to establish clearer guidelines and consistent disciplinary actions. He specifically finds the university's handling of their football team problematic due to the players' sense of entitlement. The lack of contemporary training and insensitivity towards victims from the Missoula Police Department is also scrutinized, but he notes their attempts to improve before the DOJ investigation. Krakauer attributes the bulk of the responsibility to the Missoula County Attorney’s Office, criticising their lack of understanding about non-stranger rape and lack of prosecution, even when substantial evidence of rape is presented. Krakauer asserts the need for concerted effort on all fronts to rectify the situation. He notes police and prosecutors are working on better practices to increase rape convictions while respecting due process. He also suggests universities need to streamline their sexual assault response systems. He concludes the book with the story of his friend, Laura Summers, a rape victim who suffered lifelong trauma and turned to an institution for help. Krakauer admits writing Missoula was driven by his own lack of understanding about the harsh reality of rape and his intention to contribute to resolving the issue.

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Jimmy Chin

"I was just really impressed how he basically in a way changed how he wrote to address the subject in the most powerful way that he could." - Jimmy Chin