Try to remember and write down as many facts about the attacker as you can. Do not wash, douche, brush your teeth, or change your clothing before the medical examination. Physical evidence should be collected within 48 hours after the assault. Without this evidence, it is more difficult to press charges. If you want the police to conduct an investigation, they will tape a formal interview, contact witnesses, and process evidence for the prosecution. The legal process may be lengthy. You have the right to an SVRC advocate during every step of the process.
It is important to find a supportive person and environment as soon as possible. Remember that nobody asks or deserves to be raped. You are not to blame: only the assailant is responsible for the assault.
The Sexual Violence Resource Center (SVRC) has a 24-hour toll-free Safe Line 800-630-1425. They provide advocates who will support you, explain your options, and accompany you to access services such as police and medical care. You may also call MSU Security (389-2111) or Mankato Public Safety (911). You have a right to an advocate during every step of reporting, examination, and judicial procedures.
Seek medical help if appropriate. Immanuel St. Joseph's Emergency Medical Service hosts a Sexual Assault Resource Team (SART) to meet the needs of survivors of sexual violence. You can contact them at 389-4720. Emergency room treatment for sexual assault is confidential and paid by the county. Ask questions about risk factors for pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases. You may consider being tested. The One-to-One Clinic in Mankato (388-9950) offers sensitive testing, counseling, and treatment for STDs along with confidential HIV–antibody testing.
Reporting is your choice. The Sexual Violence Resource Center reports that local law enforcement officers are supportive and sensitive to survivors. They take great measures to protect the survivor, including protecting her or his identity from the media.
There are several reporting options available to MSU students. An advocate from the SVRC can be very helpful for providing information. The survivor can report an incident (personally or through a third-party report) even without choosing to pursue charges or have a police investigation. Within the criminal justice system, there are two legal avenues to pursue: criminal and civil. Reporting and cooperating with law enforcement makes you eligible for financial assistance through the Crime Victim's Reparation fund. If you fear retaliation, you can reduce the risk by filing a Harassment Restraining Order or Order for Protection. While this gives added protection, it is not a guarantee. Police will respond promptly if you see or hear something suspicious, but they cannot provide 24-hour surveillance.
A survivor can also report the assault to the Student Judicial Board or University Hearing Officer located in Student Affairs, WA 336. An accused student may face disciplinary sanctions that can include permanent expulsion, depending on the outcome of the University investigation. Read more about the Student Judicial System at the Students Rights and Responsibilities website.
Reporting returns a feeling of personal power. You may be able to provide information that will lead to an arrest and conviction. Assailants should be held accountable.
Reporting can prevent others from being sexual assaulted. It can make people aware that assaults happen, and where they can occur. Sexual assault is severely under–reported, for many understandable reasons. The more we accurately report the incidence of sexual assault, the greater ability we will have to increase awareness and stop it from happening.
If you participate in the reporting, investigating, and prosecution processes, you have legal rights. You have the right to be notified of your rights, which include information on court procedures, the right to participate in prosecution, the right to protection from harm, and the right to apply for financial assistance. Ask an advocate for a more detailed listing of your rights.
