CSW - Sexual Assault

Assault

[UCR] [CSW]

Your Rights and Responsibilities
What men and women at UC Riverside need to know about sexual assault

The Campus Assault Prevention Program provides the information below as a brochure. Contact the Women’s Resource Center, 909.787.3337 for a copy, or read the text below.

If You Are Sexually Assaulted

There are many reasons that prevent victims from reporting incidents of sexual assault to law enforcement or campus officials. However the three most common reasons are:

1. Not clear of the legal definition for sexual assault and rape.
2. Unaware of the resources available on and off-campus
3. Unaware of victim's basic rights.

Here is what you need to know…

Both men and women (usually women) can be victims of sexual assault. Regardless of age, race, income level, or education the experience for the victim is always a violation of their person. It is not uncommon for a sexual assault victim to have feelings of guilt, fear, betrayal, shame, anger, confusion or thoughts of suicide. These are all normal reactions after a violent crime.

If you, or someone you know, experienced a recent or past incident of sexual assault you can expect confidentiality and support from the Rape Prevention and Sexual Harassment Education Program. You have the right to be treated with respect, taken seriously, and your choice of action respected. We encourage you, or your friend, to visit our office for information, advisement, and referrals.

What Is Sexual Assault?

Sexual assault is a general term used to describe many forms of sexual offenses. Any unwanted sexual contact or sexual attention committed by force, fear, duress, menace, trick or violence is sexual assault. It includes rape, attempted rape, spousal rape, oral copulation, sodomy, sexual battery, and insertion of a foreign object (finger(s) are considered a foreign object).

What Is Rape?

The California Penal Code defines rape as non-consensual sexual intercourse accomplished through force or threat of force or when a person is unable to consent due to mental disorder, disability, drugs or alcohol. Rape is not an intimate relationship. Rape is a crime of violence, anger, and power. Rape is a crime that controls, humiliates and hurts the victim. A rapist can be anyone: acquaintance, boyfriend, ex-partner, classmate, family member, or co-worker. Any unwanted sexual act that is committed or attempted against a person's will is against the law and university policy.

Sexual assault of any type is never the victim's fault

Talk to someone you trust to get the practical and emotional support you need.

Medical Treatment Is Important!

Seeking medical attention is important! Whether you choose to report the assault or not to report the assault, your well being is the number one priority. A medical examination will treat physical problems, and may diminish fears about injury, sexually transmitted diseases, or possible pregnancy. If you decided to report the assault to the police, a medical examination must take place within 72 hours of the assault (depending on circumstances) to document and collect physical evidence. You will be instructed not to destroy evidence by bathing, douching, changing clothes, or cleaning up in anyway. The State of California pays for any medical testing that is necessary for evidence collection.

Options For Reporting

You have the right not to report the crime that was committed against you. Survivors who report their crime tend to feel emotionally stronger by taking action to help campus officials and law enforcement in University disciplinary procedures, or the possible arrest and criminal prosecution of their attacker. Reporting the crime may prevent another attack on you or someone else. The decision to tell someone about the crime maybe difficult, but the decision is yours.

Reporting options to consider:

Contact the University Police Department or the Riverside Police Department (if the incident is off campus) for immediate protection and assistance. The police department will send an officer in uniform to take your report, and assist getting the other services you need.
If you decide to file a formal complaint with the University, obtain a copy of the Policies Applying to Campus Activities, Organizations, and Students, and a complaint form from either the Office of Judicial Affairs and Mediation or the Ombudsperson. Complete the form by preparing a description of the incident in chronological order, identifying all persons involved including any witnesses. After submitting your formal complaint, within five working days you will be notified of an interview.
If you need assistance in reporting (formal or informal) you may contact the Rape Prevention and Sexual Harassment Education Program.

The Rape Prevention and Sexual Harassment Coordinator will help you explore your options, and provide the necessary support to get you through the process of reporting.

Note: While safeguarding your right to confidentiality, if you choose to disclose the name of the perpetrator to any University employee who is not a medical or counseling professional, she/he is obligated to follow-up on your report. If there are factors in the report that pose a threat to the campus community, a warning notice will be released immediately through UCR Police Department and/or Rape Prevention & Sexual Harassment Education Program.

Victim's Rights:

If you are sexually assaulted, you have basic rights and considerations as a crime victim (including but not limited to):

Being treated with respect and dignity regardless of gender, race, age, income level, physical abilities, cognitive abilities, or sexual, medical and mental health history.
Timely access to emergency and crisis counseling services.
Being accompanied by an advocate while receiving victim services.
Have any allegations of sexual assault taken seriously.
Free from any suggestion that victims are responsible for sexual assault.
Free from pressure from campus personnel to report sexual assault if you do not wish to do so.
Have a family member, friend or advocate present during campus disciplinary proceedings.
Being informed of the outcome of the sexual assault disciplinary proceedings.
Being informed of the options in changing academic and living situations.
Being informed of legal rights, resources and of restitution requirements from The California Victims of Crime Program.
Being informed of safety planning and protection services.
Being informed of appropriate follow-up treatment, medical testing and counseling.

Resources

Sometimes months or even years after an assault, survivors reexperience feelings they had immediately following the attack. Talking to someone, be it a friend, clergy, crisis hotline or counselor can be a helpful way to work through fears and feelings. Whether you (or a friend) were sexually assaulted recently or sometime in the past, you do not have to deal with these feelings alone. There are many resources on campus, and in the surrounding community that can help you get your life back on track and begin the healing process.

On Campus

University of California, Riverside
Police Department-Emergency 9-911 (on campus)
Other calls (909) 787-5222

Rape Prevention and Sexual Harassment Education Program
(909) 787-5000

Office of Student Judicial Affairs
(909) 787-2428

Counseling Center
(909) 787-5531

Campus Health Center
(909) 787-3031

Ombudsperson
(909) 787-3213

Off Campus

Riverside Police Department
Emergency 911-Other calls (909) 826-5314

RAINN Hotline (toll-free)
1-800-656-4673

Riverside Rape Crisis Center
24 Hour Crisis Line (909) 686-7273

Alternatives to Domestic Violence
24 Hour Crisis Line (909) 683-0829

Victim Witness Program
(909) 955-5450

Project Writer and Editor
-Debbie Artis

For additional information or to schedule an appointment, contact:

Campus Assault Prevention Program
260 Costo Hall
Riverside, California 92521
Tel. (909) 787-3337
Fax 909.787-5199

The Campus Assault and Harassment Prevention Program serves the UCR campus and the surrounding community by providing comprehensive educational programs and information on the issue of violence, including but not limited to, sexual assault, sexual harassment, stalking, and domestic violence. Our primary goals are to raise awareness about the importance of personal safety and healthy relationships. Also, provide confidential communication, emotional support and resources to survivors who have experienced a recent or past incident of sexual assault. When you need a friend…We're here for you.

The Campus Assault and Harassment Prevention Program Offers:

Crisis Assistance-24 hrs/365 days
Confidential Support
Anonymous Incident Reporting
Counseling for Survivors (Family and Friends)
Resource and Referral Information
Training & Workshops
Complaint Advocacy (Formal and Informal)
Hospital Advocacy (Medical Examines)
Assistance with Legal and social Protocol Processes
Assistance with Campus Disciplinary Procedures
Annual Campus Safety Walk
Self-defense Classes

[committee] [history] [special events] [awards] [V-Day]

[survey project] [sexual assault] [harassment] [resources]

	Assault

[UCR] [CSW]

Your Rights and Responsibilities What men and women at UC Riverside need to know about sexual assault The Campus Assault Prevention Program provides the information below as a brochure. Contact the Women’s Resource Center, 909.787.3337 for a copy, or read the text below.

If You Are Sexually Assaulted There are many reasons that prevent victims from reporting incidents of sexual assault to law enforcement or campus officials. However the three most common reasons are: 1. Not clear of the legal definition for sexual assault and rape. 2. Unaware of the resources available on and off-campus 3. Unaware of victim's basic rights. Here is what you need to know… Both men and women (usually women) can be victims of sexual assault. Regardless of age, race, income level, or education the experience for the victim is always a violation of their person. It is not uncommon for a sexual assault victim to have feelings of guilt, fear, betrayal, shame, anger, confusion or thoughts of suicide. These are all normal reactions after a violent crime. If you, or someone you know, experienced a recent or past incident of sexual assault you can expect confidentiality and support from the Rape Prevention and Sexual Harassment Education Program. You have the right to be treated with respect, taken seriously, and your choice of action respected. We encourage you, or your friend, to visit our office for information, advisement, and referrals. What Is Sexual Assault? Sexual assault is a general term used to describe many forms of sexual offenses. Any unwanted sexual contact or sexual attention committed by force, fear, duress, menace, trick or violence is sexual assault. It includes rape, attempted rape, spousal rape, oral copulation, sodomy, sexual battery, and insertion of a foreign object (finger(s) are considered a foreign object). What Is Rape? The California Penal Code defines rape as non-consensual sexual intercourse accomplished through force or threat of force or when a person is unable to consent due to mental disorder, disability, drugs or alcohol. Rape is not an intimate relationship. Rape is a crime of violence, anger, and power. Rape is a crime that controls, humiliates and hurts the victim. A rapist can be anyone: acquaintance, boyfriend, ex-partner, classmate, family member, or co-worker. Any unwanted sexual act that is committed or attempted against a person's will is against the law and university policy. Sexual assault of any type is never the victim's fault Talk to someone you trust to get the practical and emotional support you need. Medical Treatment Is Important! Seeking medical attention is important! Whether you choose to report the assault or not to report the assault, your well being is the number one priority. A medical examination will treat physical problems, and may diminish fears about injury, sexually transmitted diseases, or possible pregnancy. If you decided to report the assault to the police, a medical examination must take place within 72 hours of the assault (depending on circumstances) to document and collect physical evidence. You will be instructed not to destroy evidence by bathing, douching, changing clothes, or cleaning up in anyway. The State of California pays for any medical testing that is necessary for evidence collection. Options For Reporting You have the right not to report the crime that was committed against you. Survivors who report their crime tend to feel emotionally stronger by taking action to help campus officials and law enforcement in University disciplinary procedures, or the possible arrest and criminal prosecution of their attacker. Reporting the crime may prevent another attack on you or someone else. The decision to tell someone about the crime maybe difficult, but the decision is yours. Reporting options to consider: Contact the University Police Department or the Riverside Police Department (if the incident is off campus) for immediate protection and assistance. The police department will send an officer in uniform to take your report, and assist getting the other services you need. If you decide to file a formal complaint with the University, obtain a copy of the Policies Applying to Campus Activities, Organizations, and Students, and a complaint form from either the Office of Judicial Affairs and Mediation or the Ombudsperson. Complete the form by preparing a description of the incident in chronological order, identifying all persons involved including any witnesses. After submitting your formal complaint, within five working days you will be notified of an interview. If you need assistance in reporting (formal or informal) you may contact the Rape Prevention and Sexual Harassment Education Program. The Rape Prevention and Sexual Harassment Coordinator will help you explore your options, and provide the necessary support to get you through the process of reporting. Note: While safeguarding your right to confidentiality, if you choose to disclose the name of the perpetrator to any University employee who is not a medical or counseling professional, she/he is obligated to follow-up on your report. If there are factors in the report that pose a threat to the campus community, a warning notice will be released immediately through UCR Police Department and/or Rape Prevention & Sexual Harassment Education Program. Victim's Rights: If you are sexually assaulted, you have basic rights and considerations as a crime victim (including but not limited to): Being treated with respect and dignity regardless of gender, race, age, income level, physical abilities, cognitive abilities, or sexual, medical and mental health history. Timely access to emergency and crisis counseling services. Being accompanied by an advocate while receiving victim services. Have any allegations of sexual assault taken seriously. Free from any suggestion that victims are responsible for sexual assault. Free from pressure from campus personnel to report sexual assault if you do not wish to do so. Have a family member, friend or advocate present during campus disciplinary proceedings. Being informed of the outcome of the sexual assault disciplinary proceedings. Being informed of the options in changing academic and living situations. Being informed of legal rights, resources and of restitution requirements from The California Victims of Crime Program. Being informed of safety planning and protection services. Being informed of appropriate follow-up treatment, medical testing and counseling. Resources Sometimes months or even years after an assault, survivors reexperience feelings they had immediately following the attack. Talking to someone, be it a friend, clergy, crisis hotline or counselor can be a helpful way to work through fears and feelings. Whether you (or a friend) were sexually assaulted recently or sometime in the past, you do not have to deal with these feelings alone. There are many resources on campus, and in the surrounding community that can help you get your life back on track and begin the healing process. On Campus University of California, Riverside Police Department-Emergency 9-911 (on campus) Other calls (909) 787-5222 Rape Prevention and Sexual Harassment Education Program (909) 787-5000 Office of Student Judicial Affairs (909) 787-2428 Counseling Center (909) 787-5531 Campus Health Center (909) 787-3031 Ombudsperson (909) 787-3213 Off Campus Riverside Police Department Emergency 911-Other calls (909) 826-5314 RAINN Hotline (toll-free) 1-800-656-4673 Riverside Rape Crisis Center 24 Hour Crisis Line (909) 686-7273 Alternatives to Domestic Violence 24 Hour Crisis Line (909) 683-0829 Victim Witness Program (909) 955-5450 Project Writer and Editor -Debbie Artis For additional information or to schedule an appointment, contact: Campus Assault Prevention Program 260 Costo Hall Riverside, California 92521 Tel. (909) 787-3337 Fax 909.787-5199 The Campus Assault and Harassment Prevention Program serves the UCR campus and the surrounding community by providing comprehensive educational programs and information on the issue of violence, including but not limited to, sexual assault, sexual harassment, stalking, and domestic violence. Our primary goals are to raise awareness about the importance of personal safety and healthy relationships. Also, provide confidential communication, emotional support and resources to survivors who have experienced a recent or past incident of sexual assault. When you need a friend…We're here for you. The Campus Assault and Harassment Prevention Program Offers: Crisis Assistance-24 hrs/365 days Confidential Support Anonymous Incident Reporting Counseling for Survivors (Family and Friends) Resource and Referral Information Training & Workshops Complaint Advocacy (Formal and Informal) Hospital Advocacy (Medical Examines) Assistance with Legal and social Protocol Processes Assistance with Campus Disciplinary Procedures Annual Campus Safety Walk Self-defense Classes

[committee] [history] [special events] [awards] [V-Day]
[survey project] [sexual assault] [harassment] [resources]