If you’re searching for guidance on how to report a sexual assault, this first step takes real courage.
What happened to you, a friend, or loved one matters. And everyone deserves support that is respectful and focused on their needs. Sexual assault can leave anyone feeling overwhelmed, unsure of what to do next, and questioning whether the experience will be taken seriously.
Whether the assault happened recently or years ago, there is no single “right” way to move forward after a sexual assault.
Here’s a look at the options available, what you can do to protect your rights, and how to take action after an incident.
Sexual Assault Can Happen Anywhere and To Anyone
Sexual assault is any non-consensual sexual contact or behavior. No matter the person’s age, gender, or background, it can happen to anyone.
Most assaults are not committed by strangers. According to RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network), only 19.5% of attacks are committed by these individuals. Unfortunately, most perpetrators are someone the survivor knows, like a friend, coworker, classmate, partner, or family member.
This can make it hard to come forward. You might feel conflicted or afraid of not being believed. But if something was done to you without clear, voluntary consent, you can speak up, ask questions, and be supported without judgment.
No matter where the incident occurred, here are a few steps to report it and get help dealing with its aftermath.
Make Sure You’re Safe
Your safety matters most. You should contact the police. For those who have been recently attacked or are in danger, call 911 right away. The Alexandria Police Department will respond and help you get to a safe location.
If you are not in immediate danger but do not feel safe, contact a local crisis line for guidance. Sometimes, the hardest part is asking for help. There are 24-hour hotlines in Alexandria staffed by people trained to support survivors, such as:
- Alexandria Sexual Assault Hotline: 703‑683‑7273
These advocates help you feel safe, informed, and heard.
Preserve Evidence
We know that after an assault, many people’s first instinct may be to shower, change clothes, or clean up. But if you want to report the assault, try to preserve any evidence. That means:
- Avoid bathing, brushing your teeth, or changing clothes
- Place any clothing or items from the incident in a paper bag
- Save text messages, photos, or communication with the person who harmed you
Even if you are unsure whether to report, preserving this information gives you options later.
Seek Medical Attention
You have the right to a free forensic exam, often called a “rape kit.” This exam can be done even if you do not file a police report. A specially trained nurse, known as a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner, will examine you.
These medical providers can treat injuries, test for STIs, and collect evidence. You are entitled to this exam at no cost, and it can be performed without notifying law enforcement if you prefer to wait.
Reporting the Assault
Whether or not to report the assault to the police is entirely up to you. You do not have to decide immediately.
If you file a report, you can contact the Alexandria Police Department on their non-emergency line: 703‑746‑4444. Officers can meet you at the hospital, your home, or another location.
Taking Legal Action When You’re Ready
Choosing to take legal action after a sexual assault is a difficult personal decision. For some survivors, this is a way to reclaim power and hold someone accountable. For others, it may not feel like the right step. There’s no “right” way to move forward.
If you choose to report the assault, criminal charges may be filed through the Alexandria Police Department and the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office.
You can also pursue a civil lawsuit, which focuses on recovering compensation for the emotional, physical, and financial harm you have suffered. Civil cases can also hold third parties, like employers or property owners, accountable if their negligence contributed to the incident.
Whatever path you’re considering, you may want to reach out to an experienced attorney at Curcio Law.
We’re here to listen and explain your options. When you’re ready, we’ll help you take the next step.
