What You Should Know If You Have Been Sexually Assaulted/Raped

If you have been sexually assaulted, it is not your fault regardless of what you were wearing, if you were drinking, or if you didn't fight back. It is always the perpetrator's fault. You have options on how to handle your assault in terms of reporting, attaining medical care and finding support.

If the rape happened recently:

For a recent sexual assault, a CASA Advocate can fully explain what your options are and assist you with any needed information.  You are in control of what steps to take and deciding what might be useful to you.  Services are 100% confidential and you are not required to report.   For someone who wants to report their sexual assault to law enforcement, we can help contact the police and hospital for evidence collection.  Evidence collection needs to be performed within 96 hours to find usable evidence; you can elect to receive the morning after pill and STD treatment if you are concerned about pregnancy or disease.  An advocate can accompany you each step of the way.   Even if you choose not to report, we strongly encourage seeking medical attention to address issues of unwanted pregnancy and potential physical injuries.

If the rape happened sometime in the past:

For sexual abuse that occurred in the past, CASA can provide support for healing through the Crisis Line, one-on-one counseling with the CASA Victim Services Coordinator, and Sexual Assault Survivor's Group. We provide these services whether the sexual assault happened as a child, teenager, or as an adult. Remember, we are here to support you. You don't have to deal with this alone.