SEXUAL ASSAULT VICTIM SERVICES
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?
Every 98 seconds, an American is sexually assaulted. And every 8 minutes, that victim is a child. Meanwhile, only 6 out of every 1,000 perpetrators will end up in prison.
Do most sexual assaults occur at night by strangers?
NO! Over 80% 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:
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. Being too drunk to give consent is Rape. Being unconscious means you CANNOT give consent, therefore it is Rape.
Myth: It’s been too long since it happened.
Fact: It is never too late to get help for yourself. Even if the assault happened years ago, sometimes it helps to talk to someone who understands you.
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 an advocate at: 1-269-655-9008.
Emergency Numbers you should have:
Police/Ems: 911
Bronson/LakeView Community Hospital: (269) 657-1500
South Haven Community Hospital: (269) 637-5271
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?
Every 98 seconds, an American is sexually assaulted. And every 8 minutes, that victim is a child. Meanwhile, only 6 out of every 1,000 perpetrators will end up in prison.
Do most sexual assaults occur at night by strangers?
NO! Over 80% 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. If you choose to get a forensic exam, we will assist you free of charge at Bronson Lakeview in Paw Paw.
- Contact the police/EMS at 911
- Call an advocate at the Domestic Violence Coalition at 269-655-9008
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. Being too drunk to give consent is Rape. Being unconscious means you CANNOT give consent, therefore it is Rape.
Myth: It’s been too long since it happened.
Fact: It is never too late to get help for yourself. Even if the assault happened years ago, sometimes it helps to talk to someone who understands you.
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 an advocate at: 1-269-655-9008.
Emergency Numbers you should have:
Police/Ems: 911
Bronson/LakeView Community Hospital: (269) 657-1500
South Haven Community Hospital: (269) 637-5271