Sexual Assault - It's on Us

Sexual assault is any sexual contact made without consent. Consent must be freely given with overt words or actions that clearly communicate an individual’s desire to engage in sexual activities. Consent is a clear yes, not the absence of a no. Consent cannot legally be obtained if an individual is incapacitated due to alcohol or other drugs, is unconscious or asleep, or has limited mental capacity.

Examples of sexual assault include unwanted touching, kissing, fondling, or penetration of the mouth, vagina, or anus with a finger, penis, or object.

If you have been assaulted, you need medical attention! Medical attention and an evidence kit can be provided free of charge. While you may not want to report your attacker now, laws give you the option to have the evidence of an assault collected and held for at least one year in case you decide to report it later.

Seek medical attention and report the incident to the police department where the assault occurred. The OUPD and the Dean of Students Office can assist with this process.

Contact us or come to our lobby at any time (Police & Support Services Building) and ask to speak to an officer. Our highly trained police officers will document important information and explain your options. Our officers will be sensitive to your requests for safety and privacy, they’ll progress at a pace that works for you, and they’ll make sure you know your rights and options as a victim.

First, we’re going to make sure you’re safe — and we’ll attend to any medical needs you have. It’s also important to know that you’re in control of the police investigation, and we will move at whatever pace you’re comfortable with.

Our highly-trained, sensitive officers will do an initial interview to better understand what happened. Then, we’ll collect evidence from you which includes the clothing you were wearing at the time, bedding (if applicable), etc. — a detective may be called to assist with the investigation.

If necessary, we can help you find a safe, alternative place to stay.

Yes. Your name will not be released to the public or the media. You will be treated with dignity, courtesy, sensitivity, and understanding. You will never be prejudged or blamed for what occurred, regardless of the circumstances.

Your first contact with OUPD will most likely be with a dispatcher. This person will ask you several questions to determine what kind of resources are needed. If you want to remain anonymous, simply say, "I have been assaulted and I would like to remain anonymous." Questions the dispatcher may ask include:

• Do you need medical assistance?
• Is the suspect still there or in the area?
• Did this just occur?
• Where did this occur?
• Do you wish to speak with an officer?
• What is your phone number?
• Do you know who did this to you?
• What does he or she look like?

Remember, the dispatcher will understand if you don't know the answers to all questions.

We understand that you may not be ready to report your sexual assault to the police. However, we encourage you to at least tell someone. Please review the list of resources below to find someone to turn to.

On Campus

Dean of Students Office
(248) 370-3352  |  144 Oakland Center

Graham Health Center
(248) 370-2341  |  [email protected]

OU Counseling Center
(248) 370-3465  |  Graham Health Center

Oakland University Police Department
(248) 370-3331  |  [email protected]

Title IX Coordinator
(248) 370-3496  |  150 Oakland Center

Off Campus

Common Ground Sanctuary
(248) 456-8150  |  Crisis Line: (800) 231-1127

Ascension Crittenton Hospital
(248) 652-5000

Haven
24/7 Crisis & Support Line: (248) 334-1274

St. Joseph Mercy Oakland Hospital
(248) 858-3000

Turning Point
24/7 Crisis Line: (586) 463-6990

Oakland County Prosecutor's Office
(248) 858-0656