Dear Survivor,

We recognize that this is a very difficult time for you. It is important for you to know that the Guelph Police Service (GPS) is here to provide assistance and support.

The GPS believes that everyone impacted by sexual violence should be treated with respect and dignity, fairness and honesty and in a professional and bias-free manner.

Our duty is to bring an appropriate resolution to the case by conducting a professional and thorough investigation, while at the same time providing you with the necessary information and resources to assist you.

As someone impacted by sexual violence, you have taken an important step by browsing through this website and/or accessing our guide (see link at bottom of page). Enclosed in this resource guide is information on sexual assault investigations, possible outcomes and the criminal court process. We have also included information on financial compensation programs and how to access professional counselling and supports in Guelph.

If you do not want to make a report to the police, or you need time and support to make that decision, we have partnered with many other agencies that can help you during this difficult time. A list of these agencies and their contact information is located within this page as well as at the back of the guide.

Our goal is to identify, arrest and prosecute the person(s) responsible. At the same time, we support the choices that you as the survivor make with respect to the process that is best for you.

 

For the purpose of this website, the Guelph Police Service will use the terms "victim" and "survivor" interchangeably, and will refer to anyone who has experienced sexual violence. We support a person's right to choose how they wish to be identified. It is also important to note that this website is not legal advice, and should be used for information purposes only. Every effort has been made to provide precise information, however, your rights, and a police officer's responsibilities, depend on each specific situation. If any any time you are unsure of your rights, you can ask the officer in charge of your case; they are required by law to inform you. While we strive to provide and maintain accurate and up to date information, some information and resources in this guide are subject to change. 

This project has been made possible by a grant from the Government of Ontario. 

Information included in this guide: 

  • What is sexual assault?
    • Definition, criminal code, considerations, consent, your choices. 
  • Sexual assault investigations: 
    • Who will investigate and how, charges/after arrest, intimate partner violence, medical care and evidence collection, youth and sexual assault. 
  • Court process:
    • Initial process, Victim/Witness Assistance Program, trial/duration/sentencing, Victim Impact Statements, publication ban/media. 
  • Financial assistance:
    • Victim Quick Response Program+ through Victim Services Wellington, civil law suits.
  • Resources for support: 
    • Victim Services Wellington, Sexual Assault/Domestic Violence Care and Treatment Centre, Women in Crisis/Rural Women's Support Program, Family Counseling and Support Services, Victim/Witness Assistance Program, Child Witness Centre, University of Guelph Resources. See Resources section below for more information on each of these services. 

Questions that will be answered in this guide: 

  • What will I be feeling during this time?
  • I'm a partner or friend, what can I do?
  • What is sexual assault?
  • What does it mean to consent to sexual activity?
  • Is saying "no" the only way to show that I do not consent?
  • What if I agree to sexual activity at first, but then I change my mind?
  • What are my choices after a sexual assault?
  • Can I report a sexual assault years after it occurred?
  • If I call police, what happens next?
  • What is a Sexual Assault Evidence Kit (SAEK?)
  • What other types of evidence will be relevant to my case?
  • Who will investigate my case?
  • Will everyone know what happened to me?
  • What happens after the arrest?
  • What if the offender is not caught?
  • Do police always charge the offender?
  • How long does the court process take?
  • What happens in court?
  • Will I have to testify in court?
  • What is a Victim Impact Statement?
  • Am I eligible for financial compensation?
  • Where can I find help and counseling in Guelph?

Download the entire guide by clicking here!