Sexual assault resources

Emily Phuong Tran, Staff Writer

Sexual Assault Resources 

Every nine minutes, Child Protective Service finds evidence for a claim of sexual abuse. That’s why it’s so important that there are resources in schools for students who need support.

If you or a friend is a victim of sexual abuse, you can go to the School-Based Health Center for help. You walk past room 27, go outside and turn right. They can do blood tests, STI screenings and treatment and pregnancy tests. The School-Based Health Center can also get students connected to a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner, a specially-trained registered nurse who can administer rape kit exams. All of these services are available to high-school age students without needing parental consent.

Additionally, talk to a trusted adult, such as a teacher, your counselor or an administrator. They are required to report to officials who can help. 

“[Sexual abuse] is a crime,” counselor Kat Toms said. “We’ll get you to the SROs, and they’ll let the Tualatin police know.” 

If necessary, counselors can contact your parent or guardian. 

The age of consent in Oregon is 18. Rape in the third degree, engaging in intercourse with a person under 16 years of age, is a Class C felony and carries a maximum 5 years imprisonment and maximum $125,000 fine.