I think I was assaulted! What do I do?
- GO TO A SAFE PLACE.
- FIND A LOVED ONE: Call a friend or family member to be with you.
- TALK TO SOMEONE WHO CAN HELP: It is advisable to report a sexual assault, even an unsuccessful attempt. The information you provide may prevent another person from being assaulted. When you report a sexual assault, any information you can remember about the attack will be helpful - the assaulter's physical characteristics, voice, clothes, car or even an unusual smell.
- CALL POLICE (911) or College Safety (661) 395-4554): If you have been sexually assaulted, you should call the police as soon as possible; do not bathe or change your clothes. Semen, hair and material under fingernails or on your clothing may be useful in identifying and prosecuting the assaulter. If the assault occurred on campus, call BC College Safety (661) 395-4554). If the assault occurred off campus, call 911.
- HELP YOURSELF: It is very helpful to contact a local rape crisis center (Alliance Against Family Violence & Sexual Assault - (661) 322-0931), where qualified staff members may assist you in dealing with your trauma. If you are unable to make the contact yourself, have a friend, family member or police make the call.
- DON'T BLAME YOURSELF: Finally, it is important to remember that many individuals will mistakenly blame themselves for the assault. However, being sexually assaulted is not a crime - the crime has been committed by the person who assaulted you.
