What will happen if I contact the Police Department about being sexually assaulted?
If you are a victim or someone who cares deeply for a victim of sexual violence, the Upper Allen Police Department wants the opportunity to ensure you get access to help from us and our many partners in the community. We want you to have a voice in moving forward and receive consistent information about the services available here in Cumberland County.
Reaching out to police will be confidential and doesn’t require you pursue criminal charges against the offender.
Here is what we’ll do for you when you contact us:
Rape and Sex Assault – First Response
- We’ll check with you about emergency and non-emergency medical attention.
- We’ll see that you have a safe place to stay.
- We’ll introduce you to one of our detectives who are trained to understand the complexity of sexual violence investigations.
- We’ll arrange for an advocate to meet you so they can provide you with comprehensive information about your options.
- We’ll do our part to make you comfortable with the process.
- At your request we’ll investigate your assault as a crime, leaving your options open.
- If you want to report, we’ll work with you to gather the best evidence possible for later criminal proceedings, if that is the path you choose.
- We’ll locate and arrest your offender if the situation dictates that approach and meets with your approval.
- We’ll see that your voice is heard and your decisions are respected.
We encourage reporting sexual violence as a crime.
…but if you’re not ready to talk to us consider reaching out to an advocate at the YWCA of Cumberland County at their 24-hour Sexual Assault / Rape Crisis Hotline 1-888-727-2877.
