How to Report an Assault

Assault is defined as the intent to commit battery or to arouse fear of bodily harm in someone else. Some states require that assault charges involve the "present ability to succeed," which means that a suspect will actually have to posses the means to harm someone physically. Here is how to report an assault.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Call 911 immediately. File a report to help the police identify your assailant.
2. Call the RAINN hotline to report a sexual attack (see Resources below); a counselor will direct you to the nearest center.
3. If you have been physically injured, go to the emergency room to receive treatment. Victims of sexual assault have the right to wait in a private area for treatment.
4. Try to remember everything you can about your attacker if he got away. Recall important characteristics like hairstyle and color, eye color, skin color, height, approximate weight and approximate age. Recall what the attacker was wearing, and if he had distinguishing features like tattoos or scars. Write everything down so you won't forget.
5. Give the police a detailed description of the attacker and follow up on your report. The police should contact you when your assailant has been arrested. If you don't hear from the police, call frequently to ask about the status of the investigation.

Tips & Warnings

• It's never easy to identify a potential sex offender or assailant. Treat every situation with a reasonable degree of caution.
• Collect evidence after an attack even if you are unsure about reporting the assault. If you were sexually assaulted, do not shower or bathe to preserve physical evidence.