DESIRED IMPACT:
To collect evidence of rape for the purpose of prosecution in a supportive and protective environment. To provide
training, as needed, to law enforcement agencies handling rape cases. To provide, on a limited basis, public
education on rape awareness.
OPERATIONAL GOALS AND PROGRAMS:
This program has been providing crisis intervention for sexual assault victims and their families since 1986. The
primary function of the program is to collect physical evidence for prosecution readiness. Additional services
provided to victims of rape include testing for sexually-transmitted diseases, administration of preventive
medications, and referrals to local support agencies/groups.
SAVE has an Advisory Board
comprised of the following agency representatives: Pasco County Sheriff, New Port Richey
Police Department, Port Richey Police Department, Dade City Police Department and their respective Victim
Advocates, Domestic Violence Shelters, Health Department, medical professionals, Child Protection Team, Area Agency
on Aging Victim Advocate, Attorney General, Representative Michael Fasano’s office, National Organization for Women,
and Pasco County Administration.
SERVICES PROVIDED
- Medical examination, to include the collection of evidence, if within 72
hours of occurrence.
- Pregnancy testing.
- Sexually-transmitted disease testing.
Coordination with Victim Advocates from the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office
and the New Port Richey Police Department.
Referral to support groups and counseling services.
Public awareness forums, in an effort to prevent sexual assault.
IF YOU BECOME A RAPE VICTIM
- Go to a safe place and get help.
- CALL POLICE OR 9-1-1.
- Do not shower, bathe, or change clothing. If you must use the restroom,
gently "pat" dry.
- Do not alter the crime scene in any way.
- Get medical attention.
It is important to be examined as soon as possible after the
assault to determine if there are any physical injuries, test for
sexually-transmitted diseases and pregnancy, and collect evidence needed for
prosecution.
The choice is yours to report or prosecute. Rape victims feel
anger, guilt, rage, and helplessness. All services are free and
confidential.
FACTS
- Rape is the fastest growing crime of violence in the United States.
- At least half the rape victims know the person attacking them. It is often
a friend, acquaintance or relative.
- Statistics suggest that only one in ten rapes is ever reported.
- Sexual assault victims can be women, men, or children and can belong to
every ethnic background and economic class.
- Seventy percent of all rapes are planned. The rapist has decided to attack
and then looks for a victim that appears vulnerable.
- Rape is not motivated by sexual desire.
- Rapists do not rape only once.
- Victims do not cause rape to happen. They are guilty of nothing.
AWARENESS
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Park in well-lighted areas.
- Always lock your car and home.
- Be cautious.
- Be assertive.
- Be self-confident.
- Let others know you are in charge of your life.
- Do not put yourself in a vulnerable situation.
- Drugs and alcohol can make you vulnerable.