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Information, Assistance, and Support
Possible “first responders” that a victim can contact include the local rape crisis center, law enforcement, or emergency room at a local hospital. If a sexual assault victim goes to the emergency room or contacts the police she/he has the right to ask for a specially trained sexual assault victim advocate to accompany and support her/him through the medical and/or legal process.
What is sexual violence?
Sexual violence is a sex act completed or attempted against a victim’s will or when a victim is unable to consent due to age, illness, disability, or the influence of alcohol or other drugs. It may involve actual or threatened physical force, use of guns or other weapons, coercion, intimidation, or pressure.
Sexual violence also includes intentional touching of the genitals, anus, groin, or breast against a victim’s will or when a victim is unable to consent; and voyeurism, exposure to exhibitionism, or undesired exposure to pornography. The perpetrator of sexual violence may be a stranger, friend, family member, or intimate partner.
(From CDC, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control)
The first step towards getting somewhere is to decide that you are not going to stay where you are.
Need Help?
Call 800.656.HOPE (4673)
to be connected with a trained staff member from a sexual assault service provider in your area.