Southside Center for Violence Prevention

What is Sexual/Violence

"Sexual violence is conduct of a sexual nature which is nonconsensual, and is accomplished through threat, coercion, exploitation, deceit, force, physical or mental incapacitation, and/or power of authority." - VSDAA

Sexual Assault affects 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men. If you are a victim of sexual assault you are not alone.

What should I do if I experience sexual assault?

First, you must remember it is never your fault! In no way can someone ask to be assaulted. If you felt forced, then you were forced. In addition, anyone can be an abuser. -- a stranger, friend, relative, and even a spouse.

Step 1 - Make sure you are safe. If you are not, scream for help or call 911.

Step 2 - Call someone. Call the police and make a report. If you do not want to make a police report, that is ok. Call a loved one to talk about what has happened. If you are not comfortable talking to someone you know, call our 24/7 confidential hotline at 1-888-819-2926.

Step 3 - Go to the hospital. During this time it is very important to to get medical attention if you are assaulted. Remember not to bathe, use the toilet, brush teeth, or wash the clothes you wore during the assault. In doing this, you will be preserving the DNA evidence needed to prosecute the perpetrator. It is important to do this even though you may not prosecute, because later on you may change your mind.

What is a PERK Exam?

PERK (Physical Evidence Recovery Kit) is an exam given to sexual assault victims to gather forensic evidence that would be helpful during an investigation, These exams are given in the emergency rooms at many local hospitals within 72 hours of the assault. In addition to gathering DNA evidence, the administering doctor will also check the victim for physical injuries and offer medications and antibiotics to prevent STD's and pregnancy.

Although the purpose of the exam is to gather evidence for an investigation, you do not have to press charges to receive these services. Also, if you do not have insurance, the CICF (Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund) will pay for the exam. If you are unsure if you want to press charges, the forensic evidence will be stored up to a month after it is gathered.

PCC and Madeline's House staff are on call 24/7 to talk to you when you need help. If you are sexually assaulted and want someone with you at the hospital during the PERK exam, staff would be happy to accompany you. If you have any questions, please call 1.888.819.2926.