Get Help

If you have experienced a rape or sexual assault, you are not alone, and support is available.

Consider preserving evidence. If you are able, avoid showering, bathing, or changing cloths until you have the opportunity to speak with a medical provider.
You can choose to contact law enforcement. If you would like to report the assault, law enforcement can help you get to a hospital for a forensic exam.
You can seek medical care whether or not you choose to report. Medical staff can provide care, answer questions, and discuss your options with you.

At the Hospital:
- A specially trained Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) or doctor can perform an exam and collect evidence, which may be used if you choose to report the crime to police. Evidence collection is best conducted as soon as possible after a sexual assault. Generally, hospitals will provide an exam within 120 hours of an assault.
- You may be offered medications to help prevent sexually transmitted infections (STI's) and pregnancy.
- Bring a change of clothes, as the police may want to collect your clothing as evidence.
- If the hospital has not notified Delaware County Victim Assistance Center, you can request that they do so. A trained advocate is available 24/7 for immediate support and accompaniment.
- Be sure to make an appointment for follow-up care, as directed by the doctor at the hospital.

Your Choices:
- If you go to the hospital, medical personnel may be required to alert police that a crime occurred. However, you do not have to speak with police in order to get a forensic exam. You can decide later whether or not you want to speak with police.
- If you are 18 years or older, you may choose to have the sexual assault evidence kit collected and tested anonymously/without a name attached to it. You can decide later whether you want to speak to police and identify yourself.

Remember: Even if you did not go to the hospital or report the assault to the police immediately, you may still do so. You can also seek support and services from Delaware County Victim Assistance Center at any time.