How to Correctly Report a Sex Crime
Unfortunately, a sex crime occurs more often than we think. Offenses of a sexual nature come in many forms, all of them sickening and disturbing. However, what is even more nerve-wracking is that victims of sex crimes do not act accordingly most of the time.
Experiencing an event of this kind, anything from sexual assault to online harassment, may be deeply upsetting. Nonetheless, the victim should act swiftly in order to make justice. Sexual offenders must be brought to justice, preventing other incidents from happening.
In the following discussion will focus on the needed steps to take in order to correctly report a sex crime.
Be Courageous and Don’t Be Ashamed of Anything
Before making the call, it’s important to leave behind any shame and insecurities. Sex crime victims are often ashamed of the situation they got into, sometimes blaming themselves. This is a big mistake that may influence the outcome.
The victim must realize that he/she is not at fault. This will help with moving forward with determination and pursuing justice through the right means.
Call the police
In case of sex crimes, calling the police is the first recommended action. Police officers are fully trained to face this kind of situation, aiding the victim and going after the offender as soon as possible.
The police protect sex crime victims against attackers and assailants. They also conduct further investigation to shed light on the case’s details and successfully find justice.
Mention as many details as possible
Once the victim has contacted the police, abundant questions will arise. Reports regarding sex crimes are highly detailed and the only person able to provide such information about the case is the victim him/herself.
The victim should leave any fears or shame behind and start providing details about the experience. Even those details that seem irrelevant may have a massive impact on the case.
Be willing to provide crucial evidence
Most of the time, spoken details aren’t enough to prove a sex crime. There is crucial evidence as clothes, hair, or fluids that may be present at the crime scene. That’s why cleaning up after a sexual assault isn’t recommended.
Also, the police may want to carry out a sexual assault forensic exam, where blood samples and other materials are collected for full analysis.
Final Considerations
Experiencing a sex crime of any kind may be stressful. However, finding calm among anxiety and making things right can positively influence the outcome for the victim. Some final considerations are:
Everything on the Victim is Evidence: It’s known that victims of sexual assaults often go straight to the shower, trying to feel clean again. This is a solid mistake, as they may be eliminating crucial evidence.
Report the Sex Crime Even if the Attacker is a Partner: Living with an abusive partner can easily become a sex crime scenario. Victims in this case, mostly women, should not skip reporting the situation.
Legal Assistance to Find Justice: Many sex crime offenders have escaped thanks to solid defense in court. So, having quality legal assistance at hand will keep the victim’s interests well protected.
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