What To Do Under 72 Hours

If the assault happened less than 72 hours (3 days) ago and a detective gives authorization, you may choose to have a forensic exam.

The Southern Arizona Center Against Sexual Assault (Center) has specially trained forensic examiners who can collect evidence which may still be on your body. When you report the assault to the police within 72 hours and cooperate with the investigation, this exam is free. The Center also has trained advocates who can meet you at the hospital and offer emotional support whether or not you receive a forensic exam.

If you decide to report the assault to the police, it is important not to destroy any potential evidence. Do not rearrange or clean up the site of the assault and do not bathe, shower, wash hands, change clothes, drink, smoke, eat, or go to the bathroom before going to the hospital. If you have already removed your clothes, be sure to put them in a paper bag. Take a change of clothes with you to the hospital.

If you don't want to report the assault to the police you can...
Call the 24-hour Sexual Assault Crisis Line. 520-327-7273 or 1-800-400-1001
Calls can be made anonymously. Even if you do not want to report to the police, you may still need emotional support and/or information.

OR

Call your primary care physician/family doctor. *
Ask about what kind of medical care you need.

OR

Go to a medical clinic for important medical care. *
Even if you don't seem to have any physical injuries, it is important to make sure that you are okay. Also, you can get medications that may help prevent infections, HIV, and pregnancy.

* All medical professionals are required by law to report sexual assaults to the police, but you do not have to answer any questions or press charges. No one has the right to make you talk if you don't want to!

Whatever you do to survive is the right thing to do!

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