How can I help a victim who was just raped but does not want to file a police report?

Attorney answers (2)

1. 

   Michael Shafer

   Norco Criminal Defense Attorney

   Contributor Level 19

   Answered December 24, 2009 08:33. You could go to the police and your friend could deny it. Did she name names? Rape is a very serious accusation. Be sure of your facts before you do anything.

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2. 

   Theodore Robinson

   Hempstead Criminal Defense Attorney

   Contributor Level 20

   Answered December 25, 2009 07:22. While its admirable that you want to "help", what you may not be aware of is you may not be helping her. Instead, it sounds more like you want to do something because of your own need to do something because of some other driving force.
   
   My respecftul suggestion is you allow the person to do as they wish about the situation. You may not know all of the circumstances involved or the motivations of each party.
   
   What you can do is support her and suggest she see a rape counselor and/or a religious counselor and be there for her as a friend. Mostly, she needs to know she is still okay and has you as a friend. Don't force her into a situation into which she does not wish to go.
   
   Good luck to both of you.

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