The First 72 Hours

In the immediate aftermath of a sexual assault:

  • Go to a safe place. Your RA’s room, a friend’s room or any open offices on campus.
  • Call someone you trust. A friend, family member or victims advocate are good resources. You do not have to go through this alone.
  • Preserve evidence. After sexual violence, do not shower until you have considered whether to have a no-cost forensic sexual assault examination at the hospital and save the clothes you were wearing (unwashed) in a paper or cloth bag. After sexual violence, relationship violence and/or stalking, take photos of any damage or injury and keep communication records.

Seek out confidential support. You may want to turn to a confidential advocate or counselor for support and advice. They will talk with you about your options for additional support services and reporting.

enCourage Advocacy Center (website)
220 South Burlington Avenue
Hastings, NE 68901
402.462.5810
Confidential 24-hour hotline: 402.463.4677

Michelle M. Morganflash MS, LIMPH, LPC
Mental Health Counselor 
Charles L. Stone Health Center
843 N. Turner Ave. Hastings, NE 68901
Monday-Friday – 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
402.463.2402 ext: 1314

After unwanted physical contact, get medical attention. A medical provider can check for and treat physical injury, sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy. Options available to Hastings College students:

Hastings College Health Center
Charles L. Stone Health Center
843 N. Turner Ave.
Hastings, NE 68901
Hours: 3:00 – 7:00 PM M-Th
               12:00 – 4:00 PM Friday
402.461.7372

A sexual assault forensic exam is also an option and is administered by specifically trained nurses at Mary Lanning Hospital. This kit will collect physical evidence that can be used at a later time in a criminal case. Even though this is a hard first step to take, it is crucial to do before showering or changing, within the first 72 hours. An advocate from enCourage Advocacy Center can assist a victim/survivor with information on the process of the exam and can assist with the cost if needed. If the victim/survivor goes to the hospital emergency room be aware that by Nebraska law requires the emergency room staffs to notify the police of any wound or injury of violence. If the victim is age 19 or under, parents must also be notified.

Mary Lanning Healthcare Emergency Room
715 North St. Joseph Ave
Hastings, NE 68901
402.463.4521

Consider making a formal report to:

You can decide how much you would like to participate in any investigation process.

  • Hastings College can help. Campus-based resources, like the Office of Student Engagement, can help you with changes to your housing, classes, work and more. You do not need to make a formal report or press charges to receive help from Hastings College.

HC Cares
HC Cares Policy
Making a Report
Resources
HC Cares Team