About Sexual Assault
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Sexual assault is a distressing crime that many people experience. Being informed about facts relating to sexual assault and possible consequences of sexual assault is important. This introductory guide provides information about reporting options, forensic evidence collection, legal protections, and possible psychological reactions. By understanding this information, survivors and those supporting them can make more fully informed decisions, better access resources, and begin the healing process.
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Cabell, Lincoln, Mason & Wayne Counties
Logan & Mingo Counties
What You Need to Know
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- Most sexual assaults are committed by someone known to the victim (a friend, date, classmate, neighbor, or relative) rather than a stranger.
- Many sex offenders use alcohol and drugs to facilitate sexual assault. Sex offenders also target individuals who are already using alcohol or drugs. West Virginia law clearly states that someone who is drunk or incapacitated from drug use cannot consent to sex.
- West Virginia does not have a statute of limitations for reporting sexual assault. This means that even 20 years from now a sexual assault can be reported.
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- A medical forensic exam is an option if the assault has occurred within the last 96 hours. Forensic exams are completed at hospitals in the emergency department. If you are at least 18 years old, you can choose for the forensic kit to be a “report” or a “non-report.” “Reported” medical forensic exams go to the state police forensic lab. “Non-report” medical forensic exams are not reported to the police and are stored for up to twenty years. “Non-report” medical forensic exams preserving evidence while giving the individual time to consider whether or not you want to make a police report.
- The cost of collecting the evidence during the forensic exam is paid by the state. Some expenses that result from the assault may be eligible for reimbursement from the state’s Crime Victims Compensation Fund if the assault is reported to law enforcement within 96 hours or if a forensic kit is completed within 96 hours. CONTACT advocates can assist with that process.
- It is important to consider the risk of pregnancy or getting a sexually transmitted infection from sexual assault. Preventative medicines are available. These medicines can be time sensitive, so it is important to receive medical care as soon as possible.
- Legal protection may be available. A protective order through a magistrate court provides protection to victims when the offender is an acquaintance or stranger (through a Personal Safety Order) or when the offender is an intimate partner, family member, or someone who lives in the household (through a Domestic Violence Protective Order). CONTACT advocates can assist in filing for protective orders.
What You Might Experience After the Assault
Everyone reacts differently to a traumatic event. Each individual is unique, with different experiences, coping strategies, and support systems. Other survivors of sexual assault have reported experiencing some of the following reactions:
- Denial
- Guilt, shame and self-blame
- Fear and lack of trust of people
- Lack of energy
- Feeling a loss of control
- Substance use
- Grief, sadness, and depression
- Anger and irritability
- Shock, disorientation, or difficulty concentrating
- Memory loss or flashbacks
- Problems with sleeping or eating
- Openly emotional or emotional numbness
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Healing From the Trauma Takes Time
If you have been sexually assaulted, a CONTACT advocate can help you understand traumatic reactions caused by sexual violence. CONTACT Rape Crisis Center can connect you with counseling and other support, whether it is immediately following an assault or years later.
- Be kind to yourself and take care of yourself.
- Eat a healthy diet.
- Exercise to relieve stress.
- Get adequate sleep.
- Take time for activities you enjoy.
- Listen to your body. If something doesn’t feel right, contact your doctor.
- Get counseling for emotional trauma.
- Consider using journaling, art, or movement to express your emotions.
- Surround yourself with positive, supportive people.
- Be patient. Healing from trauma takes time.