The recently reauthorized Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), a gradually changing and important bill that has improved sexual and domestic violence prevention and services since 1994, underwent a prolonged path to enactment.
The purpose of this section is to familiarize the reader with how both SAPAC and the state of Michigan define sexual assault. In addition, it is designed to provide an overview of consent and coercion, two issues that lie at the center of sexual assault. Also, examples of rape myths versus facts are provided. It is imperative that panelists have a complete understanding of definitions, consent, coercion, and rape myths before hearing a sexual violence-related case.
In addition to previous information, keep in mind that the University of Michigan has many other resources that may be of assistance to you in addressing your experience. SAPAC can help you connect to resources, such as the Office of Student Conflict Resolution (734-936-6308), the Office of Institutional Equity (734-763-0235), and other valuable resources should you be interested.
A PPO is an order from the court to the stalker that prohibits certain activity. If the stalker violated the order they could be sentenced up to 93 days in jail and/or a $500 fine.
A PPO Can Prohibit the Stalker From Any or All of the Following: Entering the property where you live or work, appearing within your sight, following you, assaulting you, threatening you, calling you, possessing or buying a gun, or any other conduct that interferes with your personal liberty.
Stalking is a crime. If you are being stalked, you can report this to your local law enforcement agency. If you wish to make a report of stalking to the criminal or civil justice system, here are steps to take:
If you were raped by someone that you know, you may be at risk of being stalked or harassed by the perpetrator or by friends or family of the perpetrator. If the person who raped you was a stranger, the chances of being stalked by him/her are less, but still possible.
You have the option of filing a civil lawsuit. By doing this, you could possibly be awarded monetary damages. Here are some key points to keep in mind about this option:
As a victim of a crime, you may be eligible for monetary assistance. Assistance may include compensation for medical expenses, counseling, rehabilitation, and loss of earnings resulting from an injury that is the direct result of a crime. Claims should be filed within one year; however, there are exceptions for child victims of sexual abuse and upon petition for good cause. You can get a claim form from Crime Victim Services Commission, the local Prosecuting Attorney, any State Police post, or from SAPAC.
Warrant Request and Authorization: The detective/officer assigned to your case will forward a report to the prosecuting attorney’s office. The prosecutor may want to interview you. Because sexual assault is a crime against the citizens of Michigan, the prosecutor represents the people of the State of Michigan and not you specifically. The prosecutor will make the decision about whether or not to prosecute. If you haven’t heard from the prosecutor, you can call the prosecuting attorney’s office and ask to speak with him/her.
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