*trigger* has anyone reported a rape?

[helpme999]

So sorry if this triggers anyone but I'm considering reporting a rape that happened earlier this year.

I went to sarc so have forensic evidence and had counselling.

I feel like I have to report it. But I'm still on sertraline and not really sleeping. I don't know if I can cope with it all.

Does anyone have any experience of this? I'm terrified but I can't stop thinking about it. I lie awake all night. I just want it to all stop.

I don't have recent experience. Mine report was a long time ago when I was in college. I expect and hope there is more support now.

It's great that you have been to sarc, and getting counseling. Can you speak with someone in crisis center? Is there someone in your life that you can call on for support (dp/dh, sister, mom, friend)?

Counselor and RCC could talk you through reporting. In many ways it's much easier if it was done someone not known to you.

Are you at risk now? If you are you need get help asap.

I reported about 4 years ago, 5 months after it happened. I went through the recorded (filmed) interview process in a safe location which was ok and wrote a statement explaining how the rape affected me.
What pushed me to report was keeping it inside was having a big psychological impact on me and the perpetrator had begun stalking me, following me in my car etc (he was an ex).l which was very scary.

The officers couldn't take the case to CPS because there was insufficient evidence and it was basisally a case of my word against his (I went home and shower and washed my clothes after it happened so no DNA or anything). But I found the process if being listened to and officers saying 'we believe you, we know he did it we just haven't got enough for court' to be somehow helpful. Also good to know that when he reoffends and the next woman reports him my report wil be there to back her case up.
You are not alone IMHO if you think it may help you to process what you've been through or you have a chance at getting a conviction then it's worth it.

name change for this

@help999, why do you ask?

Depending on where you live the process may be different. For example, see here: www.met.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rsa/rape-and-sexual-assault/what-happens-after-you-report-rape-or-sexual-assault/

You'll find lots of people on MN saying they'd never report.

I did. It was not easy, but for me it was the right thing to do. Also, looking back it is important to shine a light on these things, in the hope of preventing others from going through the same. It's a personal decision.

Here is a good overview of the process in Ireland
www.sexualviolence.ie/legal/

One more practical thing (it might seem trivial considering what you are dealing) is to consider the day/time for reporting. Call in advance to arrange a day/time. You'll need time available yourself.

For example, where I am (Cork Ireland and SATU is at a small local hospital) arranging a time is strongly recommended to get efficient support.

Please, please report this. I didn't report & I will wish to my dying day that I did. I am sending you huge hugs & strength that you CAN do this.

Thank you all so much.

It's the met police. I've just had a read through of those links.

I guess it's just i feel so fragile still. I'm not sleeping and I can't concentrate. I don't know if I can go through it. I know as I went to the sarc I have time. They'll store everything for two years.

I don't even know if I really want court, conviction etc. I just want to be heard.

I did several years ago. I called the police on the non emergency number, explained that I wanted to report a rape from several years ago, and made an appointment to go to the station.

I had a very positive experience, although I know that’s not the case for everyone.

It went to trial and he received a lengthy prison sentence.