How Do I Report Sexual Assault? What Are My Options?

Who You Tell Will Mean Different Things

• A friend, family member, or trusted adult — someone who listens, believes you, and supports you, without pressure to report or take action.
• A counselor or doctor — these discussions are confidential unless there is risk of imminent danger, current and ongoing abuse, or a court order.
• A school staff member — many school staff are mandatory reporters, which means they may be required by law to contact law enforcement and/or file a report.
• Your school’s Title IX process — filing a Title IX complaint must result in supportive measures for you, and may result in an investigation and disciplinary actions.
• Your local rape crisis center — many communities offer free counseling services, confidential advocates, and legal support.
• The police — this may start an investigation that could result in charges being brought against the person who caused harm.

If You Decide to Report to Law Enforcement

You may choose to see a healthcare provider to get an evidence collection kit (aka rape kit) done, usually within 72 hours. Your first reaction might be to want to wash your hands or take a shower, but it’s important not to, so that as much evidence as possible can be collected. Reach out to Sexual Assault Response Services to request an advocate to meet you at the hospital — we strongly encourage this. A medical exam does not commit you to report to the police. Even if you decide to report, you should still get privacy.

Understanding Mandated Reporting

If you disclose abuse to a mandated reporter, they are legally required to share that information with local Child Protective Services. Anyone who works at a school is a mandated reporter, and if you ask someone if they are a mandated reporter, they have to be honest with you. If you’d like to ask questions without triggering a mandated report, you can pretend you’re asking on behalf of a friend.

You can also seek help anonymously through the National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673. Whatever path you choose, whether or not you formally report, seeking support can be helpful to your healing process.