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Sexual Assault FAQs -- Question 1

Q: I was sexually assaulted. What should I do? 

A: Get away from the attacker to a safe place as fast as you can.

Do not wash, comb, or clean any part of your body, or change clothes if possible. You should not touch or change anything at the scene of the assault; it is a crime scene.

Go to the nearest hospital emergency room as soon as possible. You need to be examined, treated for any injuries, and screened for possible sexually transmitted diseases or pregnancy. The doctor or specialized nurse will collect evidence that the attacker may have left behind, like clothing fibers, hairs, saliva, or semen. A standard "rape kit" is usually used to help collect these things.

You or the hospital staff can call the police from the emergency room to file a report.

Call a friend or family member you trust.

You can call DMAFB SARC 228-SARC(7272) or 940-8059.

You can also call a crisis center or a hotline to talk with a counselor. The local 24-hour Sexual Assault Crisis Line is 327-7273 or (800)-400-1001. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (800)-799-SAFE or (800)787-3224 (TDD). You can also call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at (800)656-HOPE.

Do not feel ashamed or guilty. These feelings, as well as being afraid and shocked, are normal. It is important to get counseling from a trusted professional.

Who else to call for help:

If you are unsure of how you want to proceed- restricted/un-restricted, please consult with a SARC, SAPR Victim Advocate, SVC or chaplain.  They can preserve your request for a restricted report.  If you notify the police, OSI, your First Shirt, or Commander, you will have an unrestricted case.

 

If you would like to proceed with an unrestricted report, the local or security police will be notified of the assault.  Additionally, you may contact any of the following organizations for support. You don't have to face this alone.  Air Force organizations available to help include:

Medical Treatment Facility

Security Forces/Office of Special Investigation

Your Commander, Supervisor, or First Sergeant

Chaplains

Family Advocacy

Legal Services

DMAFB SARCs (restricted report), Air Force health care providers (psychiatric counselors, doctors, nurses) and chaplains are confidential counseling channels: they will not reveal the sexual assault to anyone else without a victim's consent.

It is vital for your safety, the safety of your fellow Airmen, and the combat readiness of your unit that you report the sexual assault immediately to the proper authorities. The Air Force will treat every sexual assault incident seriously, thoroughly investigate the incident, and hold those who commit offenses accountable. If you do not report the assault, the Air Force cannot investigate the incident or discipline the offender. Your safety and the safety of others in your unit may be affected if you choose not to report the assault.

Report the crime! 

Victims have the right to:

The right to be treated with fairness, dignity, and a respect for privacy
The right to be protected from the accused offender
The right to be notified of court proceedings
The right to be present at all public court proceedings related to the assault unless the court determines that testimony by the victim would be materially affected if the victim heard other testimony at trial, or for other good cause
The right to talk to the attorney for the Government in the case
The right to seek restitution, if appropriate
The right to information regarding conviction, sentencing, imprisonment, and release of the offender from custody.