If You've Been Raped
Hotline
What to Expect
     The Hospital
     Police Investigation      
     Prosecution Process
     Victim Compensation
Effects on Victims
Journey to Healing
     Programs & Services
     Victim Advocacy
     Counseling Services

The Police Investigation

What to expect with the police investigation:
  1. If a victim chooses to report to law enforcement s/he may be interviewed several times throughout the investigation.
  2. Law enforcement will ask many questions, some of which may seem intrusive and/or embarrassing. This information is necessary for the investigation. If the victim does not understand the relevance of a question, it is acceptable to ask the officer for further explanation.
  3. It is important to know that the offender may not be arrested even though the crime has been reported.
  4. If there are any cuts or bruises as a result of the assault, the police may request that pictures be taken. Because physical injuries may heal quickly, pictures can be important evidence for the prosecution if the case goes to trial.
  5. Law enforcement may have to collect evidence from the crime scene so it's important not to disturb the area.
  6. The victim may be asked to identify the offender through a photo or live line-up. The victim will not be seen by the offender during this process.
  7. It may take weeks or months for law enforcement to investigate a case and to determine whether or not an arrest will be made.
  8. When law enforcement completes the investigation, the case is presented to the District Attorney's office. The District Attorney determines if there is a reasonable likelihood of conviction. Unfortunately, many sex assault cases, especially ones in which the victim knows the offender or drugs and alcohol are involved, are difficult to prosecute. Lack of prosecution does not imply that the District Attorney does not believe the victim.
Picture
Picture