Report to Police
How does it work?
If you want to report to law enforcement, an officer will come and meet with you and take a report. Based on your wishes, they may start an investigation which could include talking with any witnesses. The police officers can also help plan for your safety and filing a report can help document the situation that can later be used if you decide to press charges.
Reporting to law enforcement may initiate an investigation, arrest, and prosecution of the perpetrator. However, in many cases there is not enough evidence for the case to move forward. This does not mean that the incident did not occur or that is was not wrong or illegal. The nature of these crimes can sometimes make it difficult to hold people accountable through the criminal justice system. In general, law enforcement and the district attorney will not pursue charges without the survivor’s cooperation.
If you report to the University of Oregon Police Department, the university will be informed of the incident, and we will reach out to you to provide resources. The university has a memorandum of understanding with the Eugene Police department—if a student reports to the Eugene Police Department the university is often notified about the incident. At that time the university will reach out to the student. If the incident is reported elsewhere, it is unlikely that the university would be informed.
You can reach the Eugene Police Department by calling 541-682-5111.
Back to topWhat can I report to the police?
You can report any crime to the police department. If you’re not sure that what happened was a crime, you can still report it, or you can call 541-346-SAFE to talk to someone who can explain your options.
The State of Oregon has defined many illegal acts related to sexual assault. Read more about these definitions in Laws in Oregon.
Back to topWhat happens after I report?
Reporting to law enforcement may initiate an investigation, arrest, and prosecution of the perpetrator. However, in many cases there is not enough evidence for the case to move forward. This does not mean that the incident did not occur or that is was not wrong or illegal. The nature of these crimes can sometimes make it difficult to hold people accountable through the criminal justice system.
During the investigation process, you may be asked to revisit where it happened, receive a forensic exam, or collect other evidence that may aid the investigation.
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