Victims InformationThe investigation
This section talks about what happens if you report the sexual violence or sexual assault to the police. For more information see how police investigate crimes and the decision to prosecute on this website.
Reporting the crime
If you have been a recent victim of sexual violence or assault, or are feeling unsafe, call 111 and ask for the police.
If the crime happened some time ago, even years ago, you can still report it. If you decide to report a crime that happened in the past, call your local police station (external link) and ask to speak to a detective. You can take a support person with you when you report a crime.
When you make a report police will:
- organise specialist interviewers to take your statement of what happened (this may be recorded on DVD)
- ask whether you want to talk to a specialist support worker about what happens next (this person will not be from the police).
Investigating the crime
Once you have made your report, a police officer who is trained in sexual assault will investigate (called the 'officer in charge').
As part of the investigation, the officer in charge:
- will talk to you to find out everything that happened (they may ask to speak to you several times)
- may ask you to have a medical examination with a doctor specially trained in working with victims of sexual violence (you can have a support person with you at all times)
- will talk to any other witnesses who may know something about the crime
- will take any evidence such as photos or objects that may help with the investigation.
If you have any questions about what is happening, you can contact the officer in charge at any time.
You have the right to be kept informed as the investigation progresses and to be told whether charges are laid and what the charges are.
If you have any concerns about the way your investigation is being handled you can contact the National Sexual Violence Team at Police National Headquarters by email: ASA@police.govt.nz
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