Reporting the sexual assault to law enforcement is the survivor’s choice. We encourage survivors to report. However, it is 100% your choice. We respect and support any decision you make.  Prairie Center advocates are available to help you through the process of reporting a sexual assault. We are available any time of day to help sexual assault survivors.

If you are assaulted, and you are considering filing a police report, please try to follow these guidelines to preserve evidence:

• Do not bathe or douche.
• Do not change your clothes.
• Do not brush your teeth or use mouthwash.
• Do not eat or drink anything.
• Do not apply any medication.
• Do not disturb or clean up the crime scene.

Even if you do these things, you can still get an exam. Please contact us if you have any questions or doubts.

Forensic examinations for collecting physical evidence can be conducted up to seven (7) days after an assault has occurred. You can report the crime and have a forensic examination during this time period even if you have cleaned up and/or choose not to report the incident. Questions? Please call our Crisis Hotline at 1-217- 753-8081.

You Have Rights! As a survivor, you have the right to…

• Be believed.
• Determine whether or not you want to report the sexual assault.
• Receive considerate and sensitive treatment from law enforcement and state’s attorneys
• Receive unbiased treatment no matter your race, age, class, or sexual orientation.
• Be considered a rape survivor regardless of your relationship to the assailant.
• Qualify for funds for medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation.
• Request counseling, transportation/accompaniment, or emergency financial assistance.
• Be informed about the details and progress of your case by the state’s attorney.
• Submit a victim impact statement to the court, attend sentencing and parole hearings of the offender, and be notified of parole release if you so request.

You have the right to survive!