Sexual assault is a serious crime, and it’s important to know that there is support available in West Virginia for survivors. If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, you have options to report the incident and seek the help you deserve. This page provides information on how to report sexual assault, the steps involved, and resources for support.
If you have been sexually assaulted, it’s important to consider your safety first and foremost. The following are some recommended steps:
• Get to a safe place away from the person who assaulted you.
• If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or your local emergency number.
• Even if you do not want to report the assault right away, it’s important to seek medical care as soon as possible. A healthcare provider can treat injuries, offer emotional support, and collect evidence if you decide to report later.
• The hospital may provide a rape kit (forensic exam) to collect physical evidence of the assault. It is important to note that in West Virginia, a rape kit can be done without filing a police report, but it is crucial to have it done within 96 hours of the assault for the most effective evidence collection.
• If possible, avoid showering, changing clothes, or cleaning up before going to the hospital, as this may destroy valuable evidence.
• Try to make note of any details you remember about the assault, including the time, location, and description of the assailant
You can report the assault directly to law enforcement by contacting the local police department or the West Virginia State Police. Here’s how:
You can report the assault to the police in the jurisdiction where the assault occurred.
For emergencies and immediate assistance call:
Visit the website below or call the West Virginia Criminal Investigation Division at (304) 746-2100.
• Contact the police and provide as many details as possible about the assault. The police will initiate an investigation and may ask you to participate in a forensic exam (rape kit) to collect evidence.
• Remember, you have the right to choose how much information you share with law enforcement at any time.
If you don’t feel comfortable speaking directly with law enforcement right away, you can use the West Virginia Sexual Assault Hotline for confidential support and to learn more about your options.
The hotline offers free, confidential support and guidance on what steps to take next. It is available 24/7, and you can speak with trained professionals who can provide resources, help you report, and offer emotional support.
The hotline offers free, confidential support and guidance on what steps to take next. It is available 24/7, and you can speak with trained professionals who can provide resources, help you report, and offer emotional support.
If the assault occurred on a college or university campus, you can also report the incident to campus officials. West Virginia universities have specific policies for handling sexual assault cases, and they are required to investigate and take action under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.
Title IX Coordinator Contact
These institutions are obligated to provide a safe environment for students and employees, and they may offer a separate process for reporting sexual assault or harassment on campus.
After you report sexual assault, there are several steps in the process.
Law enforcement or campus officials will investigate the report. They may ask you to provide additional information or attend interviews.
If you choose to undergo a rape kit examination, the evidence gathered will be submitted to the authorities, and it may be used in the investigation and prosecution of the assailant.
Throughout the process, you will have access to counseling services and advocacy groups who can provide guidance and emotional support.
You may choose to press charges or participate in a legal trial. The decision to proceed with criminal charges is ultimately made by law enforcement and the prosecutor.