We are interested in understanding how the local community feels about the new Victim Rights Law IC 35-40.5 that went into affect on July 1, 2020. 

Did you know, due to this law, survivors of sexual assault now have a legal right to speak to a victim advocate prior to a rape kit or speaking with law enforcement regarding an assault?

We are specifically interested in your thoughts on WHEN you feel it would be most benificial for an Advocate to be (or have been) introduced in a hospital or police station to support a Victim/Survivor of sexual assault. 

We greatly appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts.

1.Please select the answer(s) that best apply to you.

I am a Victim/Survivor of Sexual Assault.

I am a Support Person of someone who has been sexually assaulted.

I am a Professional serving Victim/Survivors of sexual assault.

I am a concerned Community Member.

Other (please specify)

2.What general area of Indiana are you located?

Northwest Indiana

Northeast Indiana

Central Indiana

Southwest Indiana

Southeast Indiana

Other (please specify)

3.What is your age?

18 to 24

25 to 34

35 to 44

45 to 54

55 to 64

65 to 74

75 or older

I choose not to anwer

4.What ethnicity best describes you?

White

Black or African American

Hispanic or Latino

Asian

American Indian or Alaska Native

I choose not to answer.

Other (please specify)

5.When do you feel it would be most beneficial for an Advocate to be (or have been) introduced in a hospital setting?

Immediately upon presentation to the hospital.

Upon arrival and after the Victim/Survivor has been evaluated by hospital staff and deemed stable. 

Upon arrival, after the Victim/Survivor has been evaluated by the hospital staff, deemed stable and after the Victim Rights has been explained by ER staff to the Victim/Survivor using the state brochure but before the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner is dispatched to the hospital.

After the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner arrives to the hospital/care facility and explains the Victim Rights to the Victim/Survivor using the state brochure.

After the forensic evidence has been completed.

Not at all. Referral & information  handed to Survivor to contact the Rape Crisis Center Advocate at a later time.

6.When do you feel it would be most beneficial for an Advocate to be (or have been) introduced in a police setting?

Immediately upon contact with police regarding the assault.

Prior to a police report taken by a patrol officer or detective.

After initial police report was made but prior to interview with a detective.

After an interview with a detective.

Not at all. Referral & information handed to Survivor to contact the Rape Crisis Center Advocate at a later time.

7.If you are a Victim/Survivor of sexual assault, would you be willing to tell us about your experience either with or without an advocate?