Get Help

Get Help - USD Students

Get Help - Vermillion Residents

For individuals in need of immediate help, these resources are available 24/7.

Medical Assistance

The fastest way to access medical assistance is to call 9-1-1.

Sanford Vermillion Hospital Emergency Room
17 Walker St
605-677-3500

The Sanford Vermillion Hospital Emergency Room follows specific policies and procedures, approved by the State, in treating an individual who has been sexually assaulted. The County will pay for emergency room care for victims who have been sexually assaulted. The victim is placed in a private exam room.

  • Medical care is given as soon as possible.
  • A victim may request a victim's advocate.
  • The hospital will call law enforcement at the victim's request.
  • Victims can request a Jane/John Doe Sexual Assault Kit. These kits give victims the option to collect important evidence with the option to file a police report at a later time.

Medical attention is necessary to evaluate any injuries (some may not be apparent to you), assess for sexually transmitted disease and/or pregnancy, and collect evidence.

Law Enforcement

Vermillion Police Department
15 Washington St
605-677-7070
Website

University Police Department
Davidson Building on Campus
605-658-6199
Website

The Vermillion Police Department and the University Police Department urge anyone who has been sexually assaulted to call immediately in order to strengthen the likelihood of successful prosecution.

Responsibilities of the Vermillion Police Department include:

  • Attending to the immediate needs of the victim, including personal safety and prompt medical care.
  • Conducting a thorough investigation.
  • When appropriate, broadcasting a description of the offender.
  • Providing victims with information concerning the importance of preserving evidence and the rights of victims.
  • Providing information for resources on and off campus.
  • Providing information on protection orders.

The Vermillion Police Department recommends the prompt reporting of sexual assault. Nevertheless, individuals should not be reluctant to file a report at a later date.

National Sexual Assault Hotline

Individuals may contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-4673 or at www.rainn.org.

Tips on Preserving Evidence

  • Do not bathe, clean up, or change clothes.
  • If you must change, put all of the clothing you were wearing in a paper bag and take it with you.