Sexual Assault

Victim of Sexual AssaultAre you a victim of sexual assault?

Click here to learn what Rape/Sexual Assault is.

If you are victim of rape/sexual assault, do not feel ashamed. It is not your fault, and you should not be embarrassed. NO MEANS NO despite any circumstances. 

Victim Services is here to help. Call our toll-free Crisis Hotline at  1 (800) 355-8989.

If you are assaulted

No one chooses to be assaulted, but if it happens, you have options. Make sure you are in a safe environment and your attacker will not be able to hurt you again. Once your safety is secured:

  • Call 911 immediately
  • Go to the nearest hospital. Whether or not you choose to report the crime, get medical attention immediately for physical injuries or to be tested for possible pregnancy or sexually-transmitted diseases (STDs). Hospital personnel will tell you about the risks of pregnancy, STDs and HIV/AIDS.Note: Please be aware that medical providers may be required to inform law enforcement. It is your choice to cooperate with the police, and you have the right to ask for a rape crisis counselor/advocate to be present.
  • Call our toll-free crisis hotline at 1 (800) 355-8989 for support, accompaniment, and/or information. This anonymous and confidential service provides knowledgeable and sensitive support, guidance and information.
  • Seek support from a friend or family member you trust

If you plan to report the crime to the police, there are a few important things to remember…

It is best not to bathe, wash your hands, or change clothes; however, it is your decision. Important evidence may be on your body and/or clothes. This can be collected during the medical examination and can be useful to the police should you decide to press charges. You can have a Victim Services Center Advocate present during the report at the police station, the hospital, or in the field where the crime occurred.

What you may feel if you have been assaulted

People’s emotional reactions to a sexual assault vary, but some common responses include:

  • Feeling responsible for the assault. Remember, a survivor is never responsible for the assailant’s behavior.
  • Feeling angry and taking the anger out on loved ones.
  • Feeling ashamed of what has happened.
  • Feeling helpless because it seems you lost control of the situation.
  • Wanting to deny that the assault was serious or that it happened at all.
  • Feeling unclean even after bathing.
  • Having difficulty sleeping at night or experiencing nightmares.
  • Inability to resume a comfortable sexual relationship with the person you love.

Trained volunteers and staff are at the Victim Services Center to help you deal with these or any other concerns that you may have. Be assured that you are not alone as you work through your recovery.

What do I do if my child says he/she was raped or sexually assaulted?

  • Call 911 immediately.
  • Take your child to the nearest hospital.
  • Call the Victim Services Center crisis hotline at 1 (800) 355-8989.
  • Seek counseling immediately.
  • Ask law enforcement if they should interview any other children that you are concerned about.
  • DO NOT blame your child or make your child feel responsible for the assault.

Need help now?

If you need immediate assistance please call our 24 hour toll-free crisis hotline at 1 (800) 355-8989.