SERVICES AVAILABLE FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT VICTIMS
What is Sexual Assault?
The definition of sexual assault is any physical contact of a sexual nature which includes:
Fondling and/or penetration of any kind (this includes use of an object) that is against a person’s will and/or accomplished through the use of coercion, threats and/or physical force and/or controlled substances such as alcohol or ecstasy.
How often does this occur?
ONE in Four females and ONE in SEVEN males will be sexually assaulted in their lifetime. It is important to note only 28% of sexual assault incidents are reported due to the personal nature of these crimes and fears about the public criminal process.
(Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice, June 2001)
Do most sexual assaults occur at night by strangers?
NO! Over 70% of sexual assaults are committed by someone the victim knows, such as a relative, friend, or acquaintance. Over 60% of assaults occur in, or near, the home of the victim or assailant.
(Sexual Assault Benchbook, MI Judicial Institute, 2002)
How can I get help?
If you have been sexually assaulted, we suggest you:
The Sexual Assault Response Team/Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners Program (SART/SANE)
If you have been sexually assaulted, this program is available to help you with:
Also, Sexual Assault services are available for anyone age 12 years or older.
Myths and Facts
Myth: Rape is about sex.
Fact: Rape is about power and control. The act of sex is just the weapon the rapist uses to exert power and control over you.
Myth: Some women ask for it.
Fact: No behavior or type of dress justifies sexual assault. Perpetrators must ALWAYS be held accountable for their actions.
Myth: Date rape isn’t really rape.
Fact: Being forced into sex against your will is rape. No matter whom the rapist is.
Myth: It’s been too long since it happened.
Fact: It is never too late to get help for yourself.
Other Services
· 24-hour on-site support at the hospitals, police stations or any other safe place
· crisis intervention/supportive counseling to adults, adolescents, non-offending parents, family and friends
· Transportation for medical, court , or counseling needs
· Assistance with the legal process, including court support and personal protection orders
All Services Provided by the Domestic Violence Coalition, Inc., are FREE of Charge
For no cost confidential counseling please contact Diamond at 1-800-828-2023 or 1-888-655-9008.
Emergency Numbers you should have:
Police/Ems: 911
LakeView Community Hospital: (269) 657-1500
South Haven Community Hospital: (269) 637-5271
Helpful Links about Sexual Assault:
www.rainn.org
www.nsvrc.org
The definition of sexual assault is any physical contact of a sexual nature which includes:
Fondling and/or penetration of any kind (this includes use of an object) that is against a person’s will and/or accomplished through the use of coercion, threats and/or physical force and/or controlled substances such as alcohol or ecstasy.
How often does this occur?
ONE in Four females and ONE in SEVEN males will be sexually assaulted in their lifetime. It is important to note only 28% of sexual assault incidents are reported due to the personal nature of these crimes and fears about the public criminal process.
(Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice, June 2001)
Do most sexual assaults occur at night by strangers?
NO! Over 70% of sexual assaults are committed by someone the victim knows, such as a relative, friend, or acquaintance. Over 60% of assaults occur in, or near, the home of the victim or assailant.
(Sexual Assault Benchbook, MI Judicial Institute, 2002)
How can I get help?
If you have been sexually assaulted, we suggest you:
- Receive immediate medical attention following the assault from the nearest emergency dept or
- Contact the police/EMS at 911
- Contact Sexual Assault services 24-hour crisis line at 1-888-655-9008
- If you have ever been sexually assaulted and would like to talk about how you are feeling, please call: 1-888-655-9008 and ask to speak to Diamond.
The Sexual Assault Response Team/Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners Program (SART/SANE)
If you have been sexually assaulted, this program is available to help you with:
- Forensic evidence collection to aid in prosecution
- Testing and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases
- Options to prevent possible pregnancy
- Emotional support during the examination, answering questions, and providing referrals to area resources.
- Help with application for crime Victim’s compensation, a program to help assist you with hospital bills
Also, Sexual Assault services are available for anyone age 12 years or older.
Myths and Facts
Myth: Rape is about sex.
Fact: Rape is about power and control. The act of sex is just the weapon the rapist uses to exert power and control over you.
Myth: Some women ask for it.
Fact: No behavior or type of dress justifies sexual assault. Perpetrators must ALWAYS be held accountable for their actions.
Myth: Date rape isn’t really rape.
Fact: Being forced into sex against your will is rape. No matter whom the rapist is.
Myth: It’s been too long since it happened.
Fact: It is never too late to get help for yourself.
Other Services
· 24-hour on-site support at the hospitals, police stations or any other safe place
· crisis intervention/supportive counseling to adults, adolescents, non-offending parents, family and friends
· Transportation for medical, court , or counseling needs
· Assistance with the legal process, including court support and personal protection orders
All Services Provided by the Domestic Violence Coalition, Inc., are FREE of Charge
For no cost confidential counseling please contact Diamond at 1-800-828-2023 or 1-888-655-9008.
Emergency Numbers you should have:
Police/Ems: 911
LakeView Community Hospital: (269) 657-1500
South Haven Community Hospital: (269) 637-5271
Helpful Links about Sexual Assault:
www.rainn.org
www.nsvrc.org