What To Do...

If You're a Victim

Get to a safe place as quickly as possible, and call 911.

Don't change or destroy the clothing you were wearing at the time of attack, as your clothing is considered evidence.

Don't bath, shower or wash up in any way; don't brush your teeth or wash your hands.  Cleaning up or bathing can destroy evidence.

If the assault occurred in your home, don't clean up, as this can destroy evidence.

The police may want to escort you to a hospital for a rape kit exam.  It's important to get medical attention as soon as possible, not just for evidence collection purposes, but transmitted diseases, and for women who are of child bearing age to discuss and/or receive possible emergency contraceptives for prevention of pregnancy.

Ask the police to contract your local rape crisis center for you to request an advocate. In El Paso County, call the STARS Rape Crisis Hotline at (915) 779-1800.