Go Ahead, Call the Police: They Can’t Unrape You
A Personal Story
I was raped when I was 16 years old. I know what it’s like to feel violated, scared, and alone. I also know that the police can’t unrape you.
When I reported my rape to the police, I was treated like a criminal. I was interrogated for hours, and I was made to feel like I was the one who had done something wrong. The police officer even suggested that I had made up the whole story.
I’m not alone in my experience. Many survivors of sexual violence are treated with suspicion and hostility by the police. This is why so many survivors choose not to report their rapes. They know that the police won’t help them, and they don’t want to be treated like criminals.
Why the Police Can’t Unrape You
There are a number of reasons why the police can’t unrape you.
- **First, the police need evidence to prove that a rape occurred.** This can be difficult to obtain, especially if the rape occurred in private. The only way to know for sure if someone was raped is if they have a medical examination. But many survivors of sexual violence don’t want to have a medical examination because it can be painful and invasive.
- **Second, even if the police have evidence that a rape occurred, they can’t force the rapist to confess.** The only way to get a rapist to confess is to have them turn themselves in. And most rapists don’t turn themselves in.
- **Third, even if the police can get a rapist to confess, that doesn’t mean that they will be convicted of rape.** A rapist can still be found not guilty if the jury doesn’t believe the survivor’s testimony. And even if the rapist is convicted, they may only get a short prison sentence. Or they may never go to prison at all.
What Can You Do
If you have been raped, there are a number of things you can do to get help and support.
- **Call a rape crisis hotline.** Rape crisis hotlines provide free and confidential support to survivors of sexual violence. They can help you find resources in your community and connect you with a counselor or therapist.
- **Find a local organization that provides support to survivors of sexual violence.** These organizations can provide a variety of services, including counseling, support groups, and legal assistance.
- **Talk to a trusted friend or family member.** Sharing your story with someone you trust can help you feel less alone and isolated.
Conclusion
Rape is a horrific crime. It can have a lasting impact on a survivor’s physical, emotional, and mental health. If you have been raped, know that you are not alone. There are people who can help you. You deserve to be treated with respect and compassion, and you deserve to get justice.
Are you interested in learning more about this topic? If so, please leave a comment below and I will be happy to provide you with additional information.
FAQs
Q: What is rape?
A: Rape is any sexual act that is committed without the consent of the victim. This can include forced oral sex, anal sex, vaginal sex, or any other type of sexual contact.
Q: What are the signs of rape?
A: The signs of rape can vary depending on the individual. However, some common signs include physical injuries, such as bruises, cuts, or bleeding; emotional distress, such as fear, anxiety, or depression; and behavioral changes, such as avoiding social situations or withdrawing from loved ones.
Q: What should I do if I have been raped?
A: If you have been raped, it is important to get help as soon as possible. You can call a rape crisis hotline, find a local organization that provides support to survivors of sexual violence, or talk to a trusted friend or family member. It is also important to seek medical attention if you have any injuries or if you think you may have been exposed to a sexually transmitted infection.
