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What Can I Do?

I was recently sexually assaulted. What can I do?

A survivor of sexual assault may encounter a bewildering number of choices related to medical services, legal assistance, and counseling/support services. The emotional reactions that may follow a sexual assault often make the decision making process even more complicated. Below please find some information about the medical, legal and counseling or support options available to a survivor of sexual assault.

Medical Needs

A survivor of sexual assault can go to the hospital for a forensic examination, rape kit, up to 96 hours after a sexual assault. This will include a collection of evidence. Therefore, when possible, it is best not to shower, wash, douche, eat, or drink in order to avoid contamination of the evidence. It is also important to bring, in a paper bag, the clothes that were worn at the time of the sexual assault. At the hospital emergency department, a survivor will also be given a general medical examination, antibiotics and testing for sexually transmitted infections, emergency contraception, and HIV prophylaxis and testing. After completing a rape kit, the survivor does not have to immediately file a report with the police. A hospital will store the rape kit for 30 days, which allows for the survivor to later decide if she/he wants to report to the police. The New York State Crime Victim's Board may cover financial assistance for any expenses that are incurred at the hospital that are not covered by the survivor's insurance. If the survivor does not choose to have a rape kit completed, she/he also has the option to go to the NYU Student Health Center (SHC), a local health clinic or their private physician for a general examination, emergency contraception, and sexual transmitted infection treatment and testing. Medical assistance at the SHC is available at Women's Health Services, the Men's Health Program and HIV Testing and Counseling.

Emotional Needs

A survivor of sexual assault can experience emotional as well as physical consequences. Sexual assault is a traumatic experience that can have both immediate and long-term effects. Initial reactions vary and may include shock, denial, anxiety, guilt, anger, and self-blame. A survivor may experience nightmares, changes in their eating patterns, and depression. Individuals who have been sexually assaulted are strongly encouraged to obtain help from a professional counselor as soon as they are ready after the incident occurs. A survivor can call the University Counseling Service, (212) 998-4780, for further information and to set up an appointment.

Seeking University Action

A survivor of sexual assault has the option to file an incident report with the Department of Public Safety. If a survivor is interested in filing an incident report, they can directly contact the Department of Public Safety at (212) 998-2222 or the Special Victims Liaison at the Department of Public Safety at (212) 998-9829. A survivor can choose to report to NYU Judicial Affairs with or without filing an incident report with the Department of Public Safety. A written complaint must be delivered, mailed, or e-mailed to NYU Judicial Affairs to begin the informal grievance procedures. Jurisdiction will be determined. If a survivor is interested in filing a complaint, she or he can contact NYU Judicial Affairs at (212) 998-4403.

Seeking Legal Action

The survivor has the option to file a complaint with the NYPD Special Victims Unit. If a survivor reports to the police, it is likely that the first interview will be conducted by a police officer. This interview may take place over the telephone, at the police station, at a hospital, or at a residence hall. If a survivor is interested in filing a complaint, they can contact the NYPD directly at (646) 610-7273. Assistance when contacting the NYPD is available through the Wellness Exchange or the Department of Public Safety.

A survivor of sexual assault has the option to file criminal/civil charges independent of NYU's actions against the perpetrator. During the investigation of the case by a NYPD Special Victims Unit detective, an assistant district attorney (ADA) will be assigned to the case. The survivor will be interviewed by the ADA. If the ADA decides to prosecute the case, the survivor may have to testify before a grand jury and may be asked to serve as a witness. For any questions about the legal process, the Manhattan DA's Office can be reached at (212) 335-9373.

I was sexually assaulted in the past. What can I do?

Sexual assault, no matter when it happens, can change your life. It can change your view of yourself and others. You may experience changes in your sleeping and eating patterns. You may have nightmares or flashbacks about the assault. You may be afraid of being alone, or you may fear being in crowds. Support and help are available for you.

Information obtained from: New York City Alliance Against Sexual Assault, www.nycagainstrape.org

I don't know what to call my experience, but I don't feel comfortable with a sexual encounter I had.

If you've had a sexual encounter that left you feeling uncomfortable or violated, but you are not quite sure what to call it, there are people available to listen and support you. The following are such resources:

  • You can contact the Wellness Exchange at 212-443-9999 or Health Promotion & Wellness Services at 212-443-1234 to speak with a staff member.
  • Counseling is available at Counseling and Behavioral Health Services 212-998-4780.