Sexual assault victims can now get a forensic exam without alerting police. The evidence is held for two years until when and if they are ready to report.
In Texas an estimated one in five women is sexually assaulted. It happens to men, too. It's rare victims come forward.
"The reporting rates for sexual assault are dismally low. Eighteen percent of sexual assault survivors make a report to law enforcement,” TAASA Spokesperson Torie Camp said.
Torie Camp with the Texas Association Against Sexual Assault or TAASA is hopeful a new law will change that. Victims can now go to a hospital and get a sexual assault exam free of cost, without alerting police.
The process is confidential from the time the victim enters the hospital. The exam kit is assigned a number, not a name, and securely stored at DPS for two years.
Since January of last year, 40 people have taken advantage of the program. Twelve of those went for exams in Williamson County and two in Travis County.
One Travis County woman recently came to the Austin Police Department ready to file charges, one month after getting a rape exam.
"People often blame themselves. Telling other people about that is very hard to do,” Camp said.
If you are a victim, Camp says please tell someone.
"It's not your fault. There are people out there to help you,” she said.
A number you can call to get help is 1-800-656-HOPE. If you live in Travis County, go to a St. David’s hospital location. In Williamson County, seek help at a Scott and White Hospital.
Prosecutors stress that physical evidence is not the only thing necessary to get a conviction. There is critical evidence at the crime scene. Witness statements are also needed. It's important to contact police as soon as possible.
