How is info about sexual assault cases and victims kept secret?

Question

I'm writing a story in which one of the main characters is assaulted. A friend later discovers some highly sensitive, probably secret information about the case. But I'm not sure exactly how it would happen, or what would be realistic. (If you think anything in your answer could be misused, I'll understand if you don't tell me.)

This is the kind of thing I'm wondering about:

- How far do the police or courts go to guard information about such cases, besides the victim's identity?

- Does information sometimes get accidentally leaked, and would a newspaper publish it if it did?

- If the victim is a minor, how much information is given to her family? Might her parents be given documentation - say, medical or police reports?

- Would the victim be given copies of such documents relating to her own case?

- Would a crime reporter be a good person to ask about this subject?

Answer 1

well whenever i have a victim of a sexual assault i give them the opportunity to sign a "request for confidentiality" form.  if they do not sign it, their name could be public knowledge and the papers can get a hold of it.  most people choose to not have their names in the paper for this type of incident as the victim.

Answer 2

I can't answer all of your questions.  I know that reporters asked my permission to use my name and I asked them not to, and they didn't.  I was not given copies of court documents, but I was notified about every court appearance, and the Victim advocate requested that I write a statement to be read in court. I only got to see the information that was available to public, but I was read the other documents. In my case the person who hurt me had a juvenile record that  I didn't see, but it was read to me. I was notified when he was in custody and when he'd be released. I am also notified about if he has tickets of violations in prison.  He had a psychiatric evaluation that I wasn't permitted to see either, because he was protected by HIPAA Laws. If you have questions feel free to send me an email. I don't have a full picture of the process, but I'll answer as much as I can.  Best of luck with your story.

Answer 3

I don't think it has to follow the mark 100% of the way. It's a story. I think if you show some struggle to access the secret information, it will make it more realistic.

Good Luck!