The Fallon Post recently published “In Your Back Yard - Fallon’s Pandemic of Sexual Assault Crimes.” As a result, some readers wrote in inquiring about resources for victims of sexual assault.
There are several different types of sexual assault; it is important to know there are also different types of resources. An excellent resource for an adult female victim may differ from a child or for men and boys.
The first item to note is that sexual assault is a crime – no matter the victim’s age, gender, or marital status. This can be hard for victims because perpetrators are often family members or friends and usually have some prior knowledge or connection with the victim. Often, they fear getting their abusers “in trouble,” either because they have been cautioned or threatened or because they are afraid that they will not be believed by parents, other adults, and even law enforcement.
Despite these common fears, local law enforcement remains one of the most critical resources when reporting sexual assault. In most adult cases, victims do not have to immediately decide if they want to take the matter to court. However, it is critical to report the incident for many reasons. Not only can it be crucial for the victim to get proper and immediate medical treatment when the assault has just occurred, but in some cases, reporting can help the victim feel less powerless.
Additionally, the statute of limitations in Nevada is 20 years on sexual assault crimes. This means that the crime must be reported within that 20-year time frame for the perpetrator to be prosecuted. This longer time frame makes it easier for young victims to report and seek reparation after they are adults. However, for the purpose of prosecution, the sooner a sexual assault is reported, the better.
Yes, date rape is also sexual assault. No matter how embarrassed or afraid, it is equally important to report this type of incident. By the time a victim reports a date rape, the perpetrator has often already assaulted other victims. Even if no case is made, the perpetrator’s name is on record with law enforcement. If they do it again, and it is reported, there is a chance that a connection can be made.
So what if law enforcement is not the answer?
Some of the best resources can be found with local Domestic Violence Intervention (DVI) organizations. It does not matter if the perpetrator was a family member or not. They can provide various other resources and even offer emergency shelter in cases where further harm can occur. Not only does Fallon have a local DVI office with 24 hour-a-day access, but the Fallon Paiute Shoshone Tribe and NAS Fallon also have offices ready for victims of sexual assault.
There is a wealth of resources for victims of sexual assault and their loved ones. If you need to speak to someone about a recent or prior assault, do not hesitate. Likewise, if you are trying to support someone who is a victim or survivor of sexual assault, there are resources. More victims than ever are speaking up – and out. This is not a battle that victims of sexual assault can fight on their own.
Here are some local resources for victims:
Domestic Violence Intervention in Fallon
Crisis Line: 775-427-1500 24-hours
https://www.dvifallon.org/resources/
Fallon Paiute Shoshone Victim Services
Hotline: 775-427-0985
Website: [email protected]
NAS Fallon Fleet Family Services
775-426-3333
Website: http://navylifesw.com/fallon/families/ffsc/
Navy Life Southwest Sexual Assault Prevention & Response
Phone: 877-995-4271
Duty SAPR VA 775-560-0558
Website: https://safehelpline.org/
Nevada Cares at UNR/ The Confidential Victim Advocate
Phone: 775-771-8724 Monday-Friday 8am-5pm
Crisis Line: 775-221-7600 24/7 Crisis Line
Website https://nvcares.com/i-might-need-help/ Email: [email protected]
Crisis Support Services of Nevada Sexual Assault Helpline
1-800-330-0226 Hotline, TEXT Hotline: Text SASS to 839863
https://cssnv.org/sexual-assault/
211 Program for Sexual Assault Counseling
Call 2-1-1 or 1-866-535-5645 or TEXT Hotline: Text your zip code to 898211
Website: https://www.nevada211.org/sexual-assault-counseling/ (with chat available)
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