SEXUAL ASSAULT

Definition of Sexual Assault:

Any sex act in which one participant does not consent.

If you have just been raped, what should you do?

Call RDVIC, the police, or go to the Emergency Room. It is very important that you see a doctor as soon as possible after the assault. The medical examination is important for four reasons:

• To check for and treat physical injuries (internal and external).
• To assess your emotional state and prescribe medication, if needed.
• To prevent possible complications such as sexually transmitted diseases and/or infections.
• To gather physical evidence in case you have decided (or decide later) that you want to go to court.

Remember:

Don't bathe, wash your hands or face, douche, or change clothes before getting medical attention. You will destroy the physical evidence that is so valuable if you decide to go to court.

If you report the rape, do you have to prosecute?

Many victims believe that if they report the assault to the police they will have to prosecute if the assailant is apprehended. The decision to prosecute is made by the victim and the county prosecuting attorney. The final decision is made by the prosecutor based on his/her judgment of the legal merits of the case. Reporting the crime does not mean that your name will be in the paper. You may also choose to report anonymously and whether or not to report the crime is up to you.