Sexual Assault Services

IF YOU HAVE BEEN SEXUALLY ASSAULTED:

You have a Choice!

• First, get to a safe place.

• Know it is not your fault!

• Reach out, connect with the Safe Harbor 24/7 crisis line with questions or just to talk: 1.800.499.7640

• If considering seeking Medical Treatment or reporting to Law Enforcement:

  • Avoid showering/washing, toileting, eating or drinking to preserve evidence
  • Save any clothing or items that may hold evidence like bedding
  • Aurora Memorial Hospital in Sheboygan has highly trained SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Exam) Nurses to help preserve evidence.  You can have a SANE exam EVEN if you are NOT reporting to Law Enforcement (*exception for minors).

IF SOMEONE YOU KNOW HAS BEEN ASSAULTED:

Believe Them!

• False reporting of sexual assaults is rare, and comparable to false reporting of instances of theft, robbery, and arson.  

• Let them know, it’s not their fault!

• Just Listen.

• This could be the first time they are disclosing, and they need your support.

• It is "ok" to not have an answer or response, just be present with them.

• Victims and Survivors of Sexual Assault have choice:

  • Let them decide to report* or to have a SANE exam.
  • Let them decide who to tell and how much they feel comfortable sharing.
  • Help them find resources they feel comfortable accessing – Safe Harbor has resources available for victims and for family and friends of victims.

* Wisconsin has mandated reporting laws that require certain people to report crimes committed against minors to Law Enforcement.