Sexual assault is a serious crime that is affecting growing numbers of our country's population. Statistics show us that one in three women will be sexually assaulted in her lifetime. However, women are not the only victims of sexual assault. Nationwide, one in six men are sexually assaulted.
Rape is a fast growing violent crime throughout this country, but it is the least reported crime - only 20-30 percent of all victims report their assault to law enforcement.
REPORT YOUR ASSAULT TO LAW ENFORCEMENT
The prospect of facing the legal process may be very intimidating. Victims who do report, often feel stronger knowing that they are taking action to stop the rapist. This decision is yours to make.
When you report the crime, you acknowledge that what has happened to you was wrong. Your report may also help prevent your attacker from assaulting again.
Rape is a word that evokes a sense of fear and helplessness in all of us.
You can't change the fact that you were assaulted. This is something that you will have to accept and live with. However, you can retake control of your life and fight for YOU!!
The Placer County Sexual Assault Response Team has been created to provide immediate medical care, victim advocacy and criminal justice services for sexual assault victims in Placer County.
Following a sexual assault, many victims are unable to make a decision about pursuing criminal or civil action. By reporting their assault and obtaining a SART medical examination, victims ensure quality evidence which can be preserved to provide maximum choices in the future.
SART is made up of dedicated professionals committed to reducing further trauma to victims of sexual assault while obtaining quality evidence to support a successful prosecution of the perpetrator.
SART examinations are conducted in a private room available 24 hours in the Emergency Department at Sutter Auburn Faith Hospital and Sutter Roseville Medical Center. These rooms contain state-of-the-art equipment needed to gather solid evidence of your assault.
OUR TEAM CONSISTS OF THREE SPECIALISTS:
- A Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner who is a medical professional specially trained in diagnosis and treatment of findings related to sexual assault, prevention of potential complications of sexual assault, evidence collection and crisis intervention.
- A Victim Advocate who is there to give you emotional support throughout the exam and through the healing process.
- A Law Enforcement Officer who is specially trained to listen to your story and ask detailed questions that will lead to the prosecution of your assailant.
When your exam has been completed we will provide you with referrals for medical, legal, and emotional follow-up to help with your recovery. SART team members will stay in contact with you after the exam to provide security, support, and answers to your questions.
SART serves all victims of sexual assault in Placer County. When children are involved, the medical examination is done by specialized pediatric SART examiners, comprised of Doctors, Physician Assistants, Nurse Practitioners and Registered Nurses trained in the examination and collection of evidence from children.
SART examinations are authorized and paid for by the law enforcement agency that responds to your call.
RAPE IS A CRIME OF VIOLENCE
Rape is a crime of violence, control and power. A rapist does not assault someone because of overwhelming sexual desire. They assault to humiliate and degrade in the most personal way.
If you have been sexually assaulted, you have survived a horrible ordeal. Whether committed by a stranger, spouse, intimate partner or acquaintance, that person has committed a crime. We are here to help you. You are not alone and help is available to you. Reaching out is an important step in your recovery.
REMEMBER
Immediate medical care is essential. A prompt report to local law enforcement may help provide you peace of mind and prevent future victims.
Sexual assault is never your fault. You are not to blame for what has happened to you.
If you or someone you know needs our services, you can contact:
- Placer County SART Coordinator - 530-886-2233
- Placer County Sheriff - 530-889-7800
- Rocklin Police Department - 916-625-5400
- Auburn Police Department - 530-823-4237
- Lincoln Police Department - 916-645-4040
- Roseville Police Department - 916-774-5000
- Placer County District Attorney - 530-889-7000
- Placer County Victim/Witness - 530-889-7021
- PEACE For Families (Advocacy Agency) - 530-885-0443
- Placer County Sheriff - Tahoe Division -530-581-6300