SPD launches alternative reporting option for sexual assault survivors

The Spokane Police Department (SPD) unveiled Seek Then Speak, an innovative reporting option for sexual assault survivors, allowing them to gather critical information and begin the reporting process confidentially. This resource, created by Ending Violence Against Women International (EVAWI), recently launched in Washington to support local survivors. The platform enables users to access details on medical care and supportive services while completing a self-guided interview that educates them on their rights and the reporting process. After the interview, survivors receive a PDF that can be saved or submitted to law enforcement, depending on their readiness to report. This initiative represents a significant step in enhancing local resources for survivors in Spokane, aiming to create a supportive environment for those impacted by sexual violence.

Notably, Seek Then Speak is intended for non-emergency situations, urging individuals to call 911 for immediate help. The SPD's adoption of this resource aligns with broader efforts to improve responses to sexual assault cases. By providing survivors with vital tools and information, the program seeks to empower individuals and facilitate the reporting process.