Immediate Concerns
The time following a sexual assault can be emotionally charged, confusing, and frightening. If you know someone who has been sexually assaulted, it is important to address the following topics:
Physical safety
Make sure the person is in a safe place. Be there emotionally for them and encourage reaching out for additional support. Contact your local rape-crisis center for free and confidential counseling and support or call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at
1-800-656-4673 (HOPE)
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Medical Attention
A medical exam can reveal injuries that may not be visible. Hospital staff can also provide treatment for possible sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), medication to prevent pregnancy (emergency contraception), and perform an exam to collect evidence if the assault happened within five days. Hospitals may have different policies around the time frame for an exam
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Reporting the Assault
If the survivor goes to the hospital, the hospital will most likely report the crime to the police. However, the survivor does not have to talk to the police in order to get a forensic exam. There is no statute of limitations in North Carolina for sex crimes from a criminal standpoint.
Once a report to law enforcement has been made, the state of North Carolina, through the county prosecutor or district attorney’s office, can choose to file criminal charges against the perpetrator. Even if a report has been made, it is ultimately up to the prosecutor’s office to decide whether or not to move forward with a case. During the decision process the prosecutor is evaluating: if the crime occurred; what can be charged under North Carolina’s criminal law; and whether or not the crime can be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.​
Counseling
Victims and others in their life may need help dealing with feelings they experience after a sexual assault impacts their lives. Sexual assault is a serious crime and is known to have short- and long-term effects on survivors and those who love and care for them.
If you are a survivor of sexual violence seeking assistance or would like more information, please call:SAVAN 1-877-627-2826 in North Carolina or contact the Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network (RAINN) at 1-800-656-4673 from anywhere else in the United States.