This page includes information to consider if you have recently experienced sexual assault. If you would prefer to speak with a confidential resource please connect directly with;
- 315.443.8000 (24/7), follow the prompts to speak with the Sexual and Relationship Violence Response Team in Counseling at the Barnes Center at The Arch
- Off-Campus: 315.468.3260 (24/7) Vera House
If you need immediate medical attention or transportation to a local emergency room for a forensic examination contact the Syracuse University Ambulance emergency line, 315.443.4299 or call 911.
Things to consider if you have recently experienced a sexual assault and/relationship violence:
- Try to preserve all physical evidence. Do not bathe, shower, drink, brush your teeth, wash your hands or change your clothes until you have a medical examination in the event there is any possibility that you want to make a police report now or sometime in the future. If you remove your clothing, place it in a paper bag to prevent deterioration of evidence Seek medical attention as soon as possible after a sexual assault even if you choose not to have an examination to collect evidence.
- A healthcare professional can assess for any possible injuries, provide emergency contraception (if needed) and screen for sexually transmitted infections.
- Testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections, HIV, and pregnancy are available by appointment at Barnes Center Healthcare at 315.443.8000.
- If you suspect that you might have been given a drug, testing is available through Barnes Center Healthcare during their office hours, however, this testing cannot be used as evidence for criminal prosecution. If you are considering prosecution, a urine sample should be collected through a hospital emergency department.
- If you would like to report the incident there are several reporting options;
- Department of Public Safety at 315.443.2224 or 711 from campus phones, #SU from cellular phones
- Syracuse Police Department at 315.435.3016
- University’s Title IX coordinator at 315.443.0211
- Remember that the Sexual and Relationship Violence Response Team is available 24/7 at 315.443.8000 if you would like to consult with a confidential resource to talk about different reporting options
- If you are concerned about payment of medical expenses related to examination after a sexual assault, the Sexual & Relationship Violence Response Team can inform you of available financial assistance, 315.443.8000.
The aftermath of sexual violence can be emotional and difficult. As a survivor, self-care is a key part of the healing process. Listen to your emotions, intuition, and instincts, and do not feel pressured to do anything beyond your level of comfort. Many survivors of sexual assault find it helpful to talk with a counselor while coping with the effects of trauma following an assault.
If you are experiencing distress from a previously sexual assault and/or relationship violence, get more information here.