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Hope Inc
  • Home
  • Sexual Assault
  • Domestic Violence
  • Stalking
  • Human Trafficking
  • Quick Exit

Sexual Assault

Ask for Help

Talk To Someone Who Cares

HOPE, Inc. 24 Hour Helpline:

National Sexual Assault Hotline:

National Sexual Assault Hotline:

1-304-367-1100

National Sexual Assault Hotline:

National Sexual Assault Hotline:

National Sexual Assault Hotline:

1-800-656-HOPE

Against Your Will is Against the Law

Sexual Assault

Sexual Assault is a crime that happens when you are forced, threatened or manipulated into sexual contact against your will. Commonly referred to as rape, sexual assault is the most under-reported crime in the United States. Rape is a crime of violence and power. It is caused by an urge to control another human being in the most personal way. No one "asks" or "deserves" to be raped.


Sexual Assault includes:

  • Rape, sexual intercourse against a person's will
  • Forcible sodomy penetration
  • Forcible object penetration
  • Unwanted or coerced sexual contact
  • Sexual contact with minors, whether consensual or not
  • Marital rape and incest
  • Can happen to anyone, regardless of age, sex, race, sexual preference, or marital status
  • Is against the law


If you have experienced sexual assault:

  • Avoid washing/bathing, douching, or changing clothes before receiving medical attention. These activities could destroy valuable evidence if you decide to report to law enforcement
  • Even if you do not want a forensic medical exam for evidence collection purposes, medical attention is recommended
  • Contact us for additional information and support


The Facts

Only 26% to 32% percent of rapes are ever reported to police.


Approximately 2/3 of sexual assaults are committed by someone who is known to the victim.


One in three women has been the the victim of an attempted or completed rape.

More Information about Sexual Assault at WVFRIS

Ask For Help

There is Help Available to You

If you are the victim of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, or human trafficking you may feel alone, afraid and confused.


There is help available to you.

  • Someone you can talk with
  • Someone who will listen
  • Someone who understands


Ask for help by calling:

  • HOPE, Inc. 24 Hour Helpline: 304-367-1100
  • National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE

Outreach Offices

We have outreach offices in the counties listed below.


Marion:

304-367-1100

Harrison:

304-624-9835

Lewis:

304-269-8233

Doddridge:

304-873-1416

Gilmer:

304-462-5354


Safety Planning

Sexual Assault Safety Planning

  • If you are ever in immediate danger, the quickest way to access help is to call 911
  • If you are already in your vehicle, drive to the nearest police station. Tell them of your immediate or pending safety concerns

If you feel unsafe and are not in imminent danger

  • Talk with an advocate to develop a plan of action to address your immediate safety needs and necessary referrals to community resources to meet any urgent needs (e.g., housing)
  • If needed, implement and discuss the safety plan until you feel comfortable with it. Every individual and circumstance is different. Some victims feel safer remaining in their own homes after experiencing violence. Others feel safer if they change locks or have a friend stay with them

If you feel unsafe and are not in imminent danger

  • Talk with an advocate to develop a plan of action to address your immediate safety needs and necessary referrals to community resources to meet any urgent needs (e.g., housing)
  • If needed, implement and discuss the safety plan until you feel comfortable with it. Every individual and circumstance is different. Some victims feel safer remaining in their own homes after experiencing violence. Others feel safer if they change locks or have a friend stay with them

if you need to escape or leave quickly

  • If you are unsure of your current location, try to determine any indication of your locality such as, street signs outside the residence/place of employment or print material that may have the address listed
  • Plan an escape route or exit strategy and rehearse it, if possible
  • Think about and plan your next steps after you leave the situation
  • Contact trusted friends/relatives to notify them or to ask for assistance, if you feel comfortable
  • West Virginia Foundation for Rape Information and Services (WVFRIS) has contact information for the rape crisis centers across the state who provide confidential advocacy services
  • Create and prepare a support network of people that you trust

Protection Orders in West Virginia

  • A victim of sexual violence or stalking can request a protective order through their county magistrate court
  • Personal Safety Orders (PSOs) are for victims who do not live with or have never been in a romantic relationship with the offender
  • Domestic Violence Protective Orders (DVPOs) are for victims who either live/lived or are/were in a romantic relationship with the offender

Safety with an Order of Protection

  • Give your protection order to police departments in communities where you frequent, work and/or visit family and friends
  • If you feel comfortable, tell your neighbors/employer/friends to call law enforcement if they see the offender near, in, or at the location
  • Call law enforcement immediately if the order is violated

Call Us: 304-367-1100


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Hope, Inc. | A United Way agency

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