Why Should I Report an Assault?

Rape victims, unlike victims of other crimes, are often reluctant to report assaults to the police or other authorities such as the Vice President for Educational & Student Services. They often fear that they will be blamed or disbelieved. They may also know the assailant and want to shield him from severe consequences such as expulsion or imprisonment.

Deciding whether to report the crime can be a very difficult decision. There are several reasons you may choose to report a sexual assault to the police:

• You may need medical attention, including internal injuries that are not readily apparent. You should be tested for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and for pregnancy. Law enforcement officials can help you access medical assistance.
  

• Reporting an assault does not commit a victim to pressing charges or to prosecuting the assailant. However, promptly reporting an assault helps create the strongest case possible in the event that you decide to pursue criminal charges and/or university disciplinary action.
  

• If you delay reporting, physical evidence may become unusable, making prosecution less likely. (Note: In the event that you do not wish to pursue a formal complaint, you may go to the Emergency Room to be treated for illness and injuries and decline evidence collection.)
  

• Even if criminal charges are not filed, reporting the crime provides law enforcement personnel with important information, including a description of the assailant and the method of committing the crime. Such information may be helpful in solving other cases.
  

• Reporting the assault also insures more accurate statistics on the incidence of rape, an important tool in enacting or modifying rape laws and for developing prevention strategies.
  

• Crime victims can be eligible for financial compensation through the Crime Victim Compensation Program. In Iowa, the crime must be reported to local law enforcement officials with 72 hours of the assault to be eligible for compensation. When extenuating circumstances prevent timely reporting, 11/9/07

• Rapists are often repeat offenders. Reporting may help authorities identify a pattern in a rapist's behavior.
  

• Reporting a sexual assault is an active way of regaining control. It is a healthy way to channel anger and to appropriately place blame with the perpetrator.