How To Report A Sexual Assault In Montgomery Co. During COVID-19

GERMANTOWN, MD — Montgomery County has released a new guide on how to access sexual assault forensic exams, services, and counseling during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The guide, released earlier this month, was created by the Montgomery County's Victim Assistance and Sexual Assault Program (VASAP) and the Maryland Coalition Against Sexual Assault (MCASA).

"The pandemic has not stopped sexual violence and Montgomery County and MCASA are working together to ensure that all survivors get the help they need," said MCASA Executive Director Lisae Jordan.

Sexual assault refers to sexual behavior or contact that happens without explicit consent from the victim, according to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN). Some forms of assault include unwanted sexual touching, fondling, attempted rape, and rape.

The guide for Montgomery County residents can be found here. It provides people with information on what to expect during a forensic exam and how services have been redesigned during the public health crisis.

Adventist Health Care Shady Grove continues to provide exams and medical care. Survivors can report directly to the hospital and get treated in designated private areas, officials say.

They can also speak to the Montgomery County Police Department's Special Victims Investigation Division. Specially trained detectives conduct investigations regardless of when the assault took place.