Reporting a Sexual Assault
The Crime Prevention office has several programs designed for students and staff. These include a self-defense class, how to report a sexual assault, date rape drugs, and sexual assault prevention. Anyone interested in these programs can contact XUPD at 513 745-2000.
What to do if you are sexually assaulted?
- Find a safe environment -- anywhere away from the attacker. Ask a trusted friend to stay with you.
- Preserve evidence of the attack -- don't bath. shower, douche, or brush your teeth. Write down all the details you can recall about the attack and the attacker.
- Call the police -- they can help you not only with a report but also with support resources in the area.
- Seek medical and emotional support. Even with no physical injuries, it is important to determine the risks of STDs and pregnancy. Ask the hospital to conduct a rape kit exam and if you think you may have been drugged, ask that a urine sample be taken.
- Remember that it was not your fault and that emotional healing from a rape takes time. Give yourself the time you need.
How You Can Help a Victim
- Listen.
- Be supportive and non-judgmental.
- Make it clear that the sexual assault was not the victim's fault.
- Don't pry. Let the victim choose which details to release.
- Offer options. Suggest:
- seeking medical assistance
- calling the police
- seeking emotional support
- telling others about the assault
- Let the victim make choices. Do not control the situation. During the assault, the victim's control was removed. You should let the victim make her/ his own decisions and begin to regain control.
- If you are uncertain what the victim wants from you, just ask.
- Don't let your own emotions color your response.
- A sexual assault often has an impact on people close to the victim. These people may need help also.