|
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.
|
