FAQs

While survivors are strongly encouraged to make a report to both the police and the Office of Nondiscrimination & Accommodations Compliance (ONAC) for assistance and investigation, it is ultimately the survivor’s decision as to which type(s) of report, if any, are best for their recovery and well-being. The police investigate criminal violations. The University (ONAC) investigates University conduct code and policy violations. Reporting can help to ensure the safety of the victim-survivor and the entire campus community. The Advocates at UCF Victim Services can assist you in deciding what type of reporting is best for you.

You can always report a sexual assault to the police and/or University regardless of when it occurred. However, it may be helpful for you to know that the sooner you file a report after the incident, the better the chances that helpful evidence can be collected to support a criminal case, that you will be able to convey a clear account of what happened, and that the police and University will be able to identify and speak with witnesses. If you wish to report the assault to the police, it is strongly recommended that you do so as soon as possible after the assault. Also, if you choose to report the incident to the University and utilize the student conduct process (either in addition to or in lieu of the criminal prosecution process), there is no time limit to initiate the case.

The benefits of reporting the assault to the police are that the police can preserve evidence of the assault; the police can advise a victim on safety planning techniques, including how to obtain a restraining order and/or protective order; the police can escort a victim to obtain the necessary medical treatment; the police can inform the victim of his/her eligibility for state crime victim compensation funds (compensation for medical and dental expenses related to the crime; counseling, lost wages, and other assistance); and the police will assist with prosecuting the accused, which can lead to punishment of the accused and protection of the victim and others in the community from being victimized.

You are not required to file a criminal report. The decision whether to report the assault to the police is entirely your decision to make. If you choose not to report the assault to the police, you are still encouraged to obtain medical treatment and contact an advocate to assist you with recovering from this event.