Report to Police
People who have experienced sexual violence, relationship violence, or stalking can talk to a CARE advocate for more information on what may happen if they file a police report.
Officers at both the Northwestern University Police Department (847-491-3456) and the Evanston Police Department (847-866-5000) receive special training in responding to sexual assault reports. Both departments can guide survivors through the process.
If a survivor discloses sexual assault or abuse to an Illinois officer, local law enforcement is required to complete a written police report regardless of where the incident(s) occurred, including if it occurred in a different state or country. Departments should then promptly initiate coordination across law enforcement jurisdictions.
When intially reporting to the police, there will typically be two interviews.
- The preliminary interview is brief and includes information about when and where the incident occurred. It is conducted so investigators have enough information to complete a preliminary investigation. It usually takes place at the hospital or police station.
- The second interview occurs later and is more in-depth. The survivor may be asked to give a detailed account of the incident.
For more information please visit the website for The Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault (ICASA) here.