Reporting Sexual Violence

If you or a loved one has been sexually violated, you have several options:
Reporting sexual violence can be intimidating, time sensitive and difficult. If you feel that reporting is what you want to do, keep in mind that reporting immediately after an assault insures better evidence collection.

The window for this time sensitive issue (rape exam) is 72 hours. However, a report can be made long after the assault.

Some important things to keep in mind when REPORTING:

• GET TO A SAFE PLACE. Ask a trusted friend to stay with you.
• CALL 911.
• DO NOT bathe, douche, or change clothing. If there was forced oral sex assault DO NOT brush your teeth, drink, or smoke. If evidence may be under fingernails or on hands, DO NOT wash hands or scrub nails.
• DO NOT move or "change" the "crime scene". Law enforcement will process the location of the assault and will gather evidence.
• Try to remember as many detail as you can. This is particularly difficult for victims of this crime because of the affects of the trauma you have experienced. If you need to, write it all down.
• KNOW that you have done nothing wrong. You survived the assault and the blame should lie SOLELY on the PERPETRATOR.

Choosing NOT TO REPORT:

• GET TO A SAFE PLACE
• Consider having a trusted friend come be with you.
• Get medical attention. Even without physical injuries, you still need to make sure you have no internal injuries and be assessed for STD's and the possibility of pregnancy. A medical exam will help in these determinations as well as help you be able to receive appropriate follow-up (STD medications, the Morning after pill).
• Call Piedmont Rape Crisis for support at 770-586-5423.

Resources for follow-up:

• A private physician
• Barrow County Health Department (770-307-3011)
• Piedmont Rape Crisis Center (770-586-5423)

The decision to report is a challenging one to make. It can be frightening and you have experienced a traumatic event - no matter the circumstances. It is a very personal decision. Whatever you decide to do, PRCC is here for you. We offer (whether a report is made or not) support, advocacy, resources and referrals and all services are free and confidential.

Please know that you do not have to go through this horrible experience alone. PRCC is here for you and our goal is to help you through the process and eventually find a place of healing.