Reporting to the Police After Sexual Assault: A Guide for Boston University Students

If you’ve experienced sexual assault, you have options. You don’t have to decide immediately whether or not you want to report the assault to the police, but it’s helpful to understand the process when you’re ready. This page will walk you through the steps, explain your rights, and provide information to help you make the best decision for you.

Your Options for Reporting

After a sexual assault, you can choose to report it to the police or not. Reporting to the police is your choice—there is no pressure or timeline for making this decision. Whether you decide to report or not, there are resources and support available to you.

Here are your options:

1. Report Immediately: You can go to the police right away if you feel ready.
2. Report Later: You can wait and report the assault at any time. You can also choose to report to the police later, even if you choose not to have a forensic exam (rape kit).
3. Report Anonymously: You can report to the police without giving your name, which is often called an “anonymous report.” This can help start an investigation while allowing you time to make other decisions.
4. Choose Not to Report: You can choose not to report the assault to the police. You are never obligated to report, and your decision will not affect your access to medical care, counseling, or other resources.

Why Might You Consider Reporting to the Police?

There are many reasons why a survivor might choose to report a sexual assault to the police, including:

• Documentation: The police can document your experience and keep it on file for future reference.
• Legal action: Reporting to the police can be the first step in pursuing legal action against the person responsible for the assault.
• Protection and safety: The police can help provide protection by obtaining a restraining order or preventing further harm.
• Support and resources: Reporting to the police opens the door to support, including referrals for legal services, counseling, and other resources.

However, reporting to the police is a personal decision, and only you can decide what is right for you.

How to Report a Sexual Assault to the Police

A SARP counselor can accompany you to the police and act as an advocate through the process. If you choose to report to the police, you can do so in several ways:

1. Boston University Police Department (BUPD)

• Phone: (617) 353-2121 (24-hour line)
• In person: 32 Harry Agganis Way, Boston, MA 02215
• Website: BUPD

BUPD is available to support you, and they work closely with local law enforcement to ensure your report is handled professionally and sensitively. You can report directly to BUPD or choose to report to the Boston Police Department (BPD). BUPD can also assist with helping you connect with additional resources.

2. Boston Police Department (BPD)

• Phone: (617) 343-4400 (Special Victims Unit)
• In person: Boston Police Headquarters, 1 Schroeder Plaza, Boston, MA 02120

BPD’s Special Victims Unit handles sexual assault cases and has officers trained in supporting survivors. If you report to the BPD, they will guide you through the investigative process.

3. Reporting to the Police in Person or by Phone

You can report the assault in person or over the phone. Reporting in person allows you to provide a detailed account of the assault, but if you prefer to report by phone, an officer can take down your information and guide you through the process.

What Happens After You Report?

Initial Steps:

• If you simply want documentation, they will take your statement and offer you resources. They can also help you file an emergency restraining order. 
• If you are interested in pressing charges, they will take your statement, review any evidence, look fo rthe assailant and interview them, then present the case to the District Attorney, who will decide if charges will be filed.  
• It is important to note that this process take a long time, and the likelihood of arrest is low. It can be helpful to discuss your goals for reporting with a counselor. 

Your Rights During the Process:

• Confidentiality: Your report will be treated confidentially. Your name and personal details will not be disclosed without your consent, except as required by law.
• Choice to Participate: You have the right to decide how much information you want to share and whether or not you want to proceed with the case at any time. You can pause or stop the investigation if you choose.

What Happens if You Don’t Want to Report Right Away?

You do not have to report the assault immediately. If you are not ready to make a police report, you can:

1. Seek medical care: You can go to the hospital for a SANE exam (rape kit) without involving the police. The exam preserves evidence for up to 15 years.
2. Speak with an advocate: You can talk with a rape crisis advocate who can help you understand your options and provide support. Advocates are available to help you whether or not you report to the police.
3. Report Later: You have the right to report the assault to the police at any time. The evidence from the SANE exam can still be used if you decide to report the assault later.

What to Expect During a Police Investigation

After you report the assault, the police will conduct an investigation. This process may include:

• Interviewing witnesses and people who may have seen or heard something.
• Collecting evidence, including medical evidence from a SANE exam, physical evidence like clothing or DNA, and digital evidence like phone records or surveillance footage.
• Identifying the suspect: If the perpetrator is known, they may be questioned by the police. If the perpetrator is unknown, the police will work to gather more information to help identify them.

Court Process:

If the case goes to court, you may be called to testify about what happened. An advocate can help you navigate this process and provide support throughout.

Resources and Support

Whether you decide to report the assault or not, there are resources available to you:

• Boston University Survivor Advocacy Response and Prevention (SARP)
• • • Phone: (617) 353-7277
    • Website: BU SASS
    • SASS offers confidential support and can guide you through your options, including reporting to the police.
• Boston Area Rape Crisis Center (BARCC)
• • • Phone: (617) 492-7273 or 1-800-841-8371 (24-hour hotline)
    • BARCC provides confidential support and resources for survivors.
• RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)
• • • Phone: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
    • Website: RAINN
    • National 24-hour hotline offering confidential support for survivors of sexual violence.
• MIT Violence Prevention and Response
• • • Phone: (617) 253-2300
    • Provides confidential advocacy and support, including assistance with reporting to the police.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

You are not alone. Help is available.

Remember that you don’t have to navigate this process alone. Support is available at every step, whether you choose to report to the police or not. You are in control of the process, and your decisions will be respected.

If you have any questions, reach out to one of the resources listed above for confidential support and guidance.