What to Do After a Sexual Assault in Brownsville
At The Law Giant, Personal Injury & Accident Lawyers, we understand that experiencing sexual assault is a deeply traumatic and personal event. Your safety and well-being come first. If you were sexually assaulted in Brownsville or anywhere in Cameron County, here are the steps we recommend to help protect yourself and your rights.
1. Get to a Safe Place
Your immediate safety is the top priority. Go somewhere secure – whether that’s your home, a trusted friend’s residence, a hospital, or a local shelter such as Friendship of Women, Inc. in Brownsville.
Friendship of Women Hotline: (956) 544-7412
Address: 95 E. Price Rd., Brownsville, TX 78521
2. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you don’t have visible injuries, it’s important to get medical care as soon as possible.
Visit Valley Baptist Medical Center or Valley Regional Medical Center, where trained Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs) can conduct a forensic exam (rape kit) to preserve crucial evidence – should you decide to report the assault later.
You can receive care without being required to file a police report.
Hospitals with SANE Services:
3. Report the Assault (If You Are Ready)
You have the right to report the crime to law enforcement, but it’s entirely your choice. The Brownsville Police Department and the Cameron County Sheriff’s Office take sexual assault cases seriously. Reporting can help prevent future harm and may be part of your path toward justice – but you control the process and the timeline.
Brownsville Police Department (Non-Emergency): (956) 548-7000
Cameron County Sheriff’s Office: (956) 554-6700
4. Preserve Any Evidence
If possible, try not to bathe, change clothes, or clean up before seeing a medical professional. These steps help preserve physical evidence. Keep any texts, emails, photos, or social media messages related to the incident. This documentation can be important for both criminal and civil cases.
5. Reach Out for Emotional Support
You do not have to face this alone. Local organizations in Brownsville offer free and confidential counseling, advocacy, and support for survivors:
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Friendship of Women, Inc. – www.fowinc.com
24/7 crisis hotline, counseling, legal advocacy, and emergency shelter
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National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) – rainn.org
These resources provide compassionate, trauma-informed care to help you begin healing.
6. Speak With an Attorney
Survivors may have the right to file a civil claim against not only the perpetrator but also any institution, employer, or property owner that failed to provide adequate protection.
At The Law Giant, our Brownsville sexual assault lawyers handle these cases with confidentiality, respect, and compassion. We’ll help you understand your legal rights, navigate the process, and fight to secure the justice and compensation you deserve for your pain and losses.
You Deserve to Be Heard and Protected
We know that taking the first step can be incredibly difficult – but you are not alone. At The Law Giant, Personal Injury & Accident Lawyers, we treat every survivor with dignity, privacy, and care.
If you or a loved one has experienced sexual assault in Brownsville, call us at 956-982-1800 or for a free, confidential consultation.
Your voice matters. We’re here to stand by you, protect your rights, and help you begin the path toward healing and justice.