Sexual Violence

If you, or someone you know, is or has been a victim of sexual violence, call our 24-hour Help Line at (904) 824-1555 for free, confidential counseling. Betty Griffin Center offers programs and services that empower the victims. The Betty Griffin Center Sexual Assault Recovery Program offers free and confidential services. We start by believing your report of sexual assault. We have Sexual Assault Victims’ Advocates and Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs) who are available to speak with you.

We are here to support you and to provide advocates who can speak up on your behalf. As advocates, we are here to stand up for your rights, provide referrals, offer information and answer questions. (904) 824-1555.

Florida Council Against Sexual Violence (FCASV)

888-956-7273 (toll-free)
information@fcasv.org

Victim Link

Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN)

800-656-HOPE (4673) (toll-free)

Start by Believing Website  – End Violence Against Women International

The Rape Care Unit provides for the immediate needs of victims of rape and sexual assault and offers quality medical services to victims whether they want to report the incident to law enforcement or not – and regardless of their ability to pay.

Located at Flagler Hospital, the Rape Care Unit provides a private setting for the Medical Forensic Exam (Rape Kit) by the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs).

The Rape Care Unit provides for the immediate needs of victims of rape and sexual assault and offers quality medical services to victims whether they want to report to law enforcement or not – and regardless of their ability to pay.

All services are free, private and confidential. (904) 824-1555

Victims are examined by Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs) who provide passionate medical care, who are trained in the forensic collection of evidence, and who understand victims’ rights.

In addition to Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs), advocates are also available to help you 24 hours a day.

A waiting area for family or friends, interview rooms, restroom, shower, change of clothes, and toiletries are available – along with referrals to other services provided by Betty Griffin Center.

Victims who seek services after being raped typically have traumatic experiences that can affect their ability to work, attend school, and handle daily functions.

We are here to help, call our Help Line (904) 824-1555 for free follow up advocacy and services such as individual counseling, support groups, and emergency safety shelter if needed.

There are advocates and accompaniment available during law enforcement interviews and the justice process with a state attorney.

Items to consider:

• Finding a safe place.
• Not disturbing anything at the scene of the crime.
• Asking a friend or relative to stay with you.
• Avoiding destroying evidence, do not shower, brush your teeth, or change clothes until you’re examined by a sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE).
• Getting medical attention (you may have injuries of which you are not aware). If possible, take a change of clothing with you to the hospital.
• Making a choice to request an advocate who can provide support by calling (904) 824-1555
• Thinking about counseling.

Services provided are free and available to victims of sexual assault in St. Johns County – regardless of your choice to report to law enforcement or not.

Rape is an aggressive act and a crime of violence that uses sex as a weapon.

It’s important for everyone to remember that consent cannot be given by anyone who is physically helpless, mentally impaired, or under the influence of alcohol, narcotics or other intoxicating substances.

Sexual assault and sexual battery are incorporated under the legal definition of Domestic Violence. Specifically, Florida Statute 794.011 refers to rape as sexual battery, stating: “Sexual battery is the oral, anal, or vaginal penetration by, or union with, the sexual organ of another or the anal or vaginal penetration of another by any other object.”