Mission: The National Guard Bureau is committed to eliminating incidents of sexual assault by instituting a comprehensive policy that focuses on increasing awareness through prevention and education, victim centered support, intimidation free reporting, thorough investigation, and accountability for those who commit sexual crimes.

Role of the Sexual Assault Response Coordinator

The Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC) is considered the center of gravity when it comes to ensuring that victims of sexual assault receive appropriate and responsive care. They serve as the single point of contact to coordinate sexual assault victim care. The term Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC) is a standardized term utilized throughout the Department of Defense and the Services.

WHEN REPORTING A SEXUAL ASSAULT

As a victim you decide how you would like to report and receive services.

Restricted Reporting — ensures medical care, treatment and counseling without notifying command or law enforcement officials. You keep control over the release of information regarding your case.

The Process:

Contact SARC at (800)621-4136 Ext 46909 or the SARC Cell #s at 919-410-1960 and 919-410-2284

Command is notified

SARC or Victim Advocate attends to victim needs–provides supportive services

Investigation initiated

IF YOU HAVE BEEN ASSAULTED

If you have been sexually assaulted or think you have been:

Go to a safe location away from the attacker.

Call 911 if you are in an emergency situation.

Contact your local Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC) (800)621-4136 Ext 46909 or the SARC Cell #s at 919-410-1960 and 919-410-2284.

Seek medical care as soon as possible. Even if you do not have any visible physical injuries, you may be at risk of becoming pregnant or acquiring a sexually transmitted disease.

Ask the health care provider to conduct a sexual assault forensic examination (SAFE) to preserve forensic evidence.

If you suspect you had been drugged, request that a urine sample be collected.

Preserve all evidence of the assault. Do not bathe, wash your hands or brush your teeth. Do not clean or straighten up the crime scene.

Write down, tape or record by any other means all the details you can recall about the assault and your assailant.

COMMON EFFECTS OF SEXUAL ASSAULT

Fear

Helplessness

Shame

Self-blame and Guilt

Legitimacy and Validation

Rage

Loss of Meaning and Sustaining Beliefs

Betrayal and Loss of Trust

Diminished Sense of Self

Grief and Loss

Isolation and Alienation

The assault was NOT your fault. You did not cause it to happen. People are here to help. We are committed to supporting you and your family members in the most sensitive and private way possible. There is no “right way” in dealing with sexual assault. It is ok to be angry and important to stand up for yourself as you feel ready. Let the SARC/Victim Advocate put you in touch with all the resources and assistance available to you. Take care of yourself and ask for what you need. Remember, before washing or cleaning up, seek medical attention.