Anonymous Sexual Assault Reporting

It is estimated that only 16 percent of all rape victims report their crime to the police. In an attempt to make it easier for the victims of sexual assault to report these offenses, we designed an anonymous method for documenting and preserving the information. Such information helps the Lincoln Police Department understand the current sexual violence trends in our city and can serve to introduce the reporting party to the criminal justice system in Lincoln. Filing this report will not result in an investigation unless the victim later decides to make a formal report to law enforcement. The completion of this form is also the first step, should the victim decide to have a forensic exam completed at a local hospital.

Begin Report

How Does it Work?

The Lincoln Police Department has developed a form to allow a victim to complete and submit the anonymous report on-line. A report can also be made though our Emergency Communications Center. Victims may call (402) 441-3866, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This line is dedicated to receiving anonymous sexual assault reports. The employee will walk the caller through the same questions listed on the Anonymous Sexual Assault Report Form, but will not ask for the victim's name or other identifying information.

Once the report is completed, online or over the phone, a report number is generated (similar to SA172) for reference.

If the crime took place within the last 120 hours (5 days) there may be physical evidence on the victim's body or clothing that could be critical should the victim later decide to pursue prosecution. This evidence can be collected at any Lincoln area hospital. The Sexual Assault Payment Program, through the State of Nebraska, will reimburse hospitals directly for any examination costs. The victim will not be required to send in any information. Examination reports will only be made available for prosecution if the victim signs a release of information form.

The Lincoln Police Department has an excellent working relationship with the Lancaster County Sheriff's Office and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Police Department, so if the incident a victim is reporting occurred on campus or outside the city, we will forward the report to the appropriate agency. Those agencies support this effort.

 

Will I Remain Anonymous?

Victims should be assured that we will protect their desire to remain confidential. These reports will be filed in our Crime Analysis Unit and will not be made a part of a case file unless the victim later decides to come forward with an official report.

 

Resources

Voices of Hope advocates are familiar with and able to provide assistance with the process of anonymous reporting. Individuals may call the office at (402) 476-2110 or utilize walk in services at 2545 N Street. The Voices of Hope 24 hour crisis line at (402) 475-7273 is also available to offer support and answer questions.

Victim Rights

Those who experience sexual violence have rights given to them by Nebraska Statute. For more information, refer to the Nebraska Sexual Assault Victims' Bill of Rights.