If you have been assaulted…

  • Go to a safe place immediately! 
  • Seek medical attention immediately for your injuries and to protect yourself from contracting sexually transmitted diseases. The crisis line will connect you with our advocates who are available 24 hours a day to accompany you to the hospital.  For assistance, contact our 24-hour crisis line at (559) 222-RAPE (7273).
  • If you wish to report the crime, contact your local law enforcement agency.  A reporting officer will respond quickly.   
  • Depending on the circumstances, the police officer may ask you to have an examination at a local hospital. It is important to have the examination conducted within 72 hours (3 days) of the assault. The examination is a forensic exam and is conducted by a SAFE nurse who will collect physical DNA evidence from you to help law enforcement help you; there is no charge to you.
  • DO NOT shower, bathe, wash your hands, brush your teeth, rinse your mouth, change your clothes or destroy the clothing you were wearing during the attack, prior to the forensic examination.  
  • If you’re not ready to report, write down the details of your assault in a notebook in case you decide to file a police report in the future.

 

You have the right to…

  • Request an advocate from your local rape crisis center to be with you during the forensic exam; when reporting to law enforcement and during court hearings or legal proceedings.
  • Be treated with respect, dignity, and courtesy.
  • File a police report and receive services, no matter what your relationship is with the assailant.
  • Not be judged because of your race, age, class, gender, sexual orientation, or language.
  • Privacy when meeting with a counselor or a police officer.
  • Understand all forms you are asked to sign.
  • Ask questions and receive answers about any procedures, examinations, reports, ect.
  • Be told of any necessary follow-up needed.
  • Voice complaints and expect to have them heard.

 

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