SPD launches alternative reporting option for sexual assault survivors

The Spokane Police Department (SPD) launched the Seek Then Speak program to support sexual assault survivors in Washington. This initiative, created by EVAWI (Ending Violence Against Women International), provides a private platform for survivors and their supporters to gather vital information about medical care and supportive services. Survivors aged 18 and older can engage in a self-guided interview that collects necessary details while educating them about their rights and the use of the information. After completing the interview, survivors receive a PDF that they can either save for their records or submit to law enforcement if they choose to report the incident. This new reporting option aligns with SPD's commitment to empowering survivors and providing essential resources.

Seek Then Speak is particularly relevant in a context where survivors often face barriers in reporting sexual assault. The program is designed for situations that do not require immediate law enforcement intervention, ensuring that survivors have a supportive pathway to seek help. In emergencies, SPD urges individuals to call 911 for immediate assistance.