Introduction:
Sexual assaults are among the ugliest and most devasting crimes. Rapists often threaten, degrade, violate and criminally deprive victims of their basic human right to the safety and sanctity of their person. Sexual assaults are also among the most underreported crimes because of the victim's fear, shame and misunderstanding of their rights.

Sexual assault is a crime of violence. It is estimated that more than 80 percent of all sexual assaults involve the use of weapons, or the threat of violence or death. Rapists often look for potential victims who appear weak or vulnerable; however, anyone can be a victim of a sexual assault, regardless of behavior or appearance. Rape can happen to any person, anywhere or anytime. In a significant number of cases, the rapist is known to the victim.

Facts About Sexual Assault:
Some people believe that rapists are overcome with sexual desire, or that women "ask for it" by the way they dress. Some people even believe that women want to be raped. These ideas assume that rape is motivated by sexual desire. IT IS NOT. Rape is a violent crime --a hostile act-- and is motivated by the assailant's need to hurt and humiliate the victim. It is about power. In California, any form of sexual conduct carried out upon a person, against that person's will, is a crime. Rape, specifically, is defined as "sexual intercourse, however slight, accomplished against the will of the victim". Any sexual penetration, however slight, is sufficient to complete the crime of rape. (Penal Code Sections 261 and 263).

Reporting Sexual Assault:
As soon as convenient, the victim should report incidents of sexual assault, including date or acquaintance rape to the San Joaquin Delta College District Police Department, the local police (if the victim is unable to make contact with the District Police), or a College faculty or staff member who can aid in contacting the proper authorities. The Counseling Department and Health Unit can also help in contacting the proper authorities.

If you have been raped:

Get to a safe place as soon as possible. Call a friend, family member, or the Police for transportation to the hospital. Go to the hospital for external and internal injuries, pregnancy tests, sexually transmitted diseases, evidence collection and support services. Call a Rape Crisis Hotline for support and information.

 

Important things to remember:

Do not shower, douche, bathe, or clean the area where the rape occurred, this could destroy crucial evidence. Reporting the rape to the Police is your choice. Consider seeing a counselor. They are trained to assist you in your time of need. Do not feel ashamed, you are the victim and have done absolutely nothing wrong.

The District Police will initiate criminal investigations for any assault that occurred on campus. The victim will be given information on counseling and support groups. The College also encourages persons reporting to seek the support and assistance of friends or family when needed, in presenting their concerns.

Important Addresses and Phone Numbers

San Joaquin Victim-Witness Program 222 E. Weber Avenue Rm 245 Stockton, CA 95202 (209)468-2500

Women's Sexual Assault Helpline (209)465-4997

Battered Women's Crisis Line (209)465-4878