Sexual Assault Information

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Sexual Assault Information

• Recommended Procedures to Follow After a Sexual Assault
• Some Facts You Should Know
• Crisis Center Contact Numbers
• Victim Counseling Centers in Monterey County
• Victim Compensation

If you have been the victim of a sexual assault, we want to help you. The Monterey Police Department is dedicated to assisting those who have been the victims of a sexual assault. Our goal is that your welfare is maintained and your case is carefully investigated with sensitivity.

The crimes of rape and sexual assault all too often go unreported because of embarrassment, pressure from others, or the fear of testifying in court. Members of the Monterey Police Department are committed to vigorously and actively investigating all reported sexual assaults. We want to do our part in helping victims through a particularly trying experience.

This handout is given to victims and other citizens with the intention of providing valuable information about what procedures to follow. It also lets you know about other assistance that may be available from other service agencies in our area.

It is important to report the crime immediately. Your involvement is vital to the successful prosecution of the violator.

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Recommended Procedures to Follow After a Sexual Assault

• Get to (or stay at) a safe place.
• Call 9-1-1.
• Do not shower, bathe, wash your hands, brush your teeth, or use the toilet.
• Do not change, destroy, or wash your clothing or bedding.
• Get medical attention as soon as possible.
• Contact a friend or family member you trust for support.
• Call your local rape crisis hotline for support and information.

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Some Facts You Should Know

~ In the U.S., 1.3 women are raped every minute.

• 1 in 3 women will be sexually assaulted in her lifetime.
• 1 in 3-4 girls and 1 in 7-8 boys will be sexually assaulted before age 18.
• 70% of rapes involve a teenager.
• 60% of rapes occur in or near the victim's home.
• In 80% of cases, the assailant is known to the victim.
• In 96% of child sexual abuse cases, the assailant is known to the child.
• Sexual assault victims' ages range from 3 months to 95 years of age.
• Only 1 case in 10 is reported to somebody. The number reported to authorities is believed to be much lower.

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Monterey Rape Crisis Center

• Confidential Services
• Someone to listen - 24 hours a day.
• Someone to go with you to the hospital, police and court.
• Short-term counseling.
• Support groups.
• Support for family and friends.
• Information about community services.
• Self-protection classes.

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Victim Compensation

If you are physically injured during a crime, you may be eligible for compensation through the California Victim of Crime Program.

Those eligible include:

• The victim of a crime who suffers physical and/or emotional injury, or a survivor of a person who dies as a direct result of a violent crime.
• Anyone legally dependent upon the victim for support.
• Anyone who was present during the crime and has a close relationship with the victim.
• Anyone who must receive psychological treatment as a result of a crime or who should be included in the psychological treatment of the victim.
• Anyone who takes legal responsibility and/or pays for a victim's medical or burial expenses.

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