Refuge House Resources - Facts on Making A Police Report

It is common practice for law enforcement officials to be contacted once a survivor in the ER indicates she/he has been sexually assaulted. However, this does not mean that you are obligated to make a report. You are the only one who can decide whether or not to make an initial crime report.

What are the advantages of making a police report?

If you report the crime and the rapist is caught and convicted, you may have protected others from being sexually assaulted by him
Your report may help to substantiate another survivor’s report
By reporting the crime you may be eligible for victim compensation funds through the Office of the Attorney General
You are exercising your rights and seeking justice

What are the disadvantages of making a police report?

It may be difficult to recall and repeat the details of the assault
The decision about whether or not to proceed with the case is made by the Prosecutor, not by you
Only a small number of cases go to trial and result in a conviction