Reporting Options
It's never too late to report. Know your options.
The Tuscaloosa SAFE Center helps to navigate through reporting options and law enforcement involvement. We understand that reporting is confusing, we are here to help. Please call us at 205-860-SAFE (7233) FIRST before contacting local law enforcement, this way you can be informed of all your options before making your decision.
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If you are 18 or older, you have options. Please read below for a brief description of the available reporting options.
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If you are a minor, under 18, please note that we are required by law to contact law enforcement when anyone under the age of 18 comes to the center. If you are seeking a forensic medical exam or other services, please call ahead before coming to the center.
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If you are undecided about involving law enforcement in your case, please let us help you navigate through your choices.
Full Reporting
Full reporting WILL include law enforcement (LE). This means you will be filing a formal report.
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The report will typically be taken here at TSC where the survivor will only be asked to tell their story ONCE for the forensic nurse and LE at the same time. A forensic examination and evidence collection will be provided as per the survivor's consent.
Anonymous Reporting
Anonymous reporting, or reporting as Jane/John Doe, will NOT involve LE at the time of evidence collection. The survivor will tell their story to the forensic nurse and a forensic examination/evidence collection will take place. This exam is done with the intent of one day involving law enforcement. The evidence collected in an anonymous kit will sit in storage and LE will not be contacted until the survivor reports they are ready to involve LE. The case will not be perused for prosecution until this time.
Medical Evaluation
The forensic nurse will make sure your body is medically safe, medications to prevent STI's and pregnancy can be given and referrals can be made if you would like.
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Law enforcement will NEVER be involved with this option and evidence will not be collected.
Title IX
This options is for college students
If you are a college student, you have rights on your campus! You can contact your local Title IX office for your options of reporting on-campus. The purpose of Title IX is to assist you in school. They typically offer services like changing classes if your assailant is in the same class, helping you make arrangements if you need to miss a couple of days of class or a test while coping with the sexual assault and more.
