Sexual Assault Kit Initiative Helps States Erase Rape Kit Backlogs

RAINN’s policy department has joined a team of national experts selected by the Justice Department to support states’ work to address and end the backlog of untested and unanalyzed rape kits.

Wendy's Story

Wendy was in college when a stranger hid in her car and raped her, but her rape kit wasn't tested for twenty years. Two decades later, Wendy shares what it means to find justice and to live a full and happy life. 

The Criminal Justice System: Statistics

The majority of perpetrators of sexual assault will not go to prison. 

What to Expect at a Criminal Trial

All survivors respond differently to sharing their experience publicly, and testifying in court is no exception.

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Tips for Survivors on Consuming Media

Movies and TV shows that show sexual assault, incest, and child sexual abuse can be very difficult for survivors to watch.

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Self-Care After Trauma

Whether it happened recently or years ago, self care can help you cope with the short- and long-term effects of a trauma like sexual assault.

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Crime Victim Compensation

If you decide to report the crime and work with law enforcement, you may be able to access financial compensation from a state agency to help cover some of the costs associated with the crime.

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What to Expect from the Criminal Justice System

Understanding a few key aspects of the criminal justice system can take away some of the unknowns and help you feel more prepared.

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The Importance of DNA in Sexual Assault Cases

Preserving DNA evidence is a key tool for law enforcement to investigate and prosecute crimes of sexual violence.

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What to Expect at a Criminal Trial

All survivors respond differently to sharing their experience publicly, and testifying in court is no exception.

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Communicating with Law Enforcement

You may only interact with law enforcement when you report, or they might ask you to stay involved with the investigation over a length of time.

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Crime Victim Compensation

If you decide to report the crime and work with law enforcement, you may be able to access financial compensation from a state agency to help cover some of the costs associated with the crime.

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Receiving Medical Attention

After sexual assault, a medical exam can check for help check for injuries, even those you may not be able to see.

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Reporting to Law Enforcement

Understanding how to report and learning more about the experience can take away some of the unknowns and help you feel more prepared.

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Communicating with Law Enforcement

You may only interact with law enforcement when you report, or they might ask you to stay involved with the investigation over a length of time.

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Crime on Cruise Ships

The Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2010 established passenger rights to increase safety for travelers on cruise ships. Learning about these rights before you board may help you feel more secure, and they can help you speak up if something happens.

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Safety Tips for Traveling

Whether you travel often or you’re getting ready for a once-in-a-lifetime vacation, it’s important to think about safety as part of your travel preparations. 

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Airport Security for Survivors

Airport security can be stressful for any traveler, but for some survivors of sexual assault the security screening process is a little more sensitive.

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Your Role in Preventing Sexual Assault

Whether it’s giving someone a safe ride home from a party or diverting a person who is engaging in uncomfortable behavior, anyone can help prevent sexual violence.

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