Sexual Assault Advocacy

An extremely common reaction to threatening situations like sexual assault is for the body to freeze. Many victims describe “feeling paralyzed” or experience “an inability to speak.” If you had this experience, please know you are not alone and know that freezing does not mean you consented. Sexual violence occurs anytime someone is forced, manipulated and/or coerced into any unwanted sexual activity.

That choice is completely yours. You know what is best for your life and healing process. You do not have to do anything you don’t want to do. However, there are some circumstances that will trigger mandatory reporting from certain professionals. If you are under the age of 18 or if a weapon was used during the assault, some professionals are required by law to report the assault to police.

Choosing to make a police report can be beneficial in a number of ways:

• The offender may be held accountable for the crime they committed.

• You may be able to be reimbursed for financial costs associated with the assault.

• There may be a feeling of taking back control of your situation.

We know that reporting an assault can be an intimidating process. Safehope Advocates are available to accompany you during police and court processes if you choose. Friends or family members may not be allowed to sit in on police interviews, but sexual assault victims have the right to have an Advocate with them through the entire criminal justice process. You do not have to face these challenges alone.

You may have the option of making an anonymous report through a forensic medical exam. If you are over 18, a weapon was not used in the assault and you didn’t suffer major bodily harm, hospital Emergency Departments will perform a Sexual Assault Nurse Examination (SANE) producing an “Anonymous Sexual Assault Evidence Kit” which will be stored for future use. This gives you time to think through your options and to receive immediate medical care without committing to filing a police report. This kit remains available as evidence if you decide to file a report later. Safehope Advocates are available to accompany you through the SANE procedure and while seeking medical care if you desire.

Most sexual assaults are committed by someone known and trusted by the victim. Perpetrators may be family members, friends, intimate partners or general acquaintances. Regardless of your relationship with the perpetrator, Safehope Advocates will believe you and support you in your healing journey. 

Alcohol and drugs do not cause sexual assault, although perpetrators will often use them as a tool to make their victim more vulnerable. If you were victimized while you were under the influence, please know that it was not your fault. If you were using illegal drugs or drinking underage, know that sexual violence is a much more serious crime than illegal substance use. You deserve to be safe – always. Safehope Advocates will believe you and support you every step of the way.