Crime Prevention : Safety Tips

What happens when you report a rape ( or other sexual offences)?

• The police official will take your statement. You need not be alone - a friend or family member can be with you while you make your statement, as long as he or she is not a potential witness in your case.
   
• If you later feel that your statement is wrong or incomplete, you can make another statement.
   
• You can make your statement in your own language ( if it may be translated).
   
• You have a right to a copy of your statement. It may sometimes not be possible to et a copy straight away, but then you will get it later.
   
• The police official will give you a case number and you must use this number whenever you want information about your case.
   
• Where necessary, the investigating officer will make sure you are examined by a health care worker, who will complete a medical report.
   
• You must make sure that the investigating officer knows how and where to contact you at all times, including when you move.
   
• The investigating officer will let you know
  • if the suspect is arrested;
  • if the suspect is released on bail;
  • if you need to attend an identity parade;
  • the date of the trial; and
  • when you will have to give evidence.
     
• The police investigate the case and then hand it over to a state lawyer called a prosecutor. The service is free to you. Both the police official and the prosecutor will be able to give you information about your case.
   
• Get a telephone number from the investigating officer so that you know where to get information about your case.

What can we all do to help?

Join community based Victim Support initiatives; be trained as a Volunteer.

Report rape - and help others report rape.

Don't protect rapists - don't hide them in your home or your community - tell the police.

Bring up boys to be real men - real men respect women and real men don't rape.

REMEMBER - A SEXUAL ASSAULT IS NOT YOUR FAULT.

Who can you contact?

Contact your local Police Station or :
POLICE EMERGENCY NUMBER 10 111
CRIME STOP 08600 10 111
 

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