Reporting an assault

If you are in immediate danger, please contact the Gardaí on 999.

Contact your local Rape Crisis Centre if you would like support to help you decide whether to report the assault to the Gardaí.

The trained support worker can explain what reporting involves, and what happens afterwards. If you have concerns about reporting the assault because of an issue such as drug use, or immigration status, you can bring it up with the support worker.

They can also set up an initial meeting with the gardaí where they can answer any questions you have before you decide whether to report the assault.

Stages in reporting an assault

There is no time limit on reporting a sexual assault to the Gardaí.

The first stage in reporting involves the Gardaí requesting a detailed account of what happened. This is your statement. When and if you feel ready to make a statement, you can do it at a garda station, or at another location. You can ask to make the statement with a female garda, if you prefer.
You can bring someone with you to make a statement, but that person cannot be a witness to the crime. This might be a friend, a family member or an accompaniment worker from a Rape Crisis Centre or from One in Four (visit their website www.oneinfour.ie). When you make your statement, the person who accompanies you cannot speak on your behalf.
Make sure you read your statement carefully and change it, if necessary, before you sign it. You have the right to a copy of the statement. If you remember fresh details after you have signed the statement, you can make a supplementary statement.
The gardai will provide you with a liaison person who has a duty to keep you informed as they investigate the case. You can contact them throughout the process that follows.
Once you have made a statement, the guards will carry out an investigation which may include talking to witnesses, tracking CCTV and accessing any forensic evidence available. Once their investigation is complete, the guards will transfer the file to the Director of Public Prosecutions who will decide whether to prosecute, a process which can take years. The liaison garda should stay in touch with you throughout.

If you feel you are not being treated well by the police at any stage, you can ask to see the duty officer or you can make a formal complaint.

You do not need to make any decisions now about reporting the assault to the Gardaí or PSNI but it is a good idea to leave your options open. Here are some points to remember if the assault has just happened. (Click here):

If possible, do not drink, eat, shower or go to the toilet before your SATU visit. Do not throw out or wash underwear or clothes that you were wearing at the time of the assault.

You can contact your local Rape Crisis Centre for support to help you decide whether to report the assault to the Gardaí. The trained support worker can explain what reporting involves, and what can happen afterwards. If you have concerns about reporting the assault because of an issue such as drug use, or immigration status, you can bring it up with the support worker.

They can also help you make appointments and accompany you through the process of reporting.

Remember: You do not need to make any immediate decision about reporting the assault to the Gardaí.

Find your nearest Rape Crisis Centre