The Investigations Unit is responsible for conducting thorough and efficient investigations into crimes committed on campus.
Our team of highly trained detectives works closely with local law enforcement agencies when appropriate, to ensure that all incidents are thoroughly investigated and appropriate actions are taken. We take every investigation seriously and strive to ensure that justice is served for all parties involved.
All UI Police officers are trained to conduct victim-centered investigations using trauma-informed techniques that aim to create a safe and supportive environment for the interviewee. This helps ensure people who have experienced trauma are treated with sensitivity and respect and that the information gathered during the interview is accurate and reliable.
Contact
Travis Tyrrell
How to Report
If the incident occurred on campus, report it to UI Police by calling 319-335-5022.
In an emergency, call 911.
Resources
The university offers many resources, including confidential counseling, supportive measures, and medical assistance, to help you through whatever situation you may be experiencing.
Sexual Assault Investigations
The UI Police Department takes sexual assault and sexual misconduct very seriously. We have a dedicated team of investigators who are specially trained to handle these types of cases. When a sexual assault is reported, the victim is provided with immediate support and resources, including medical attention and counseling services.
Based on the victim's wishes, our investigators conduct a thorough and sensitive investigation by gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses to determine what occurred. We work closely with the victim throughout the process and keep them informed of any developments in the case. We also collaborate with other departments and agencies, such as student accountability, the Title IX office, and the county attorney, to provide comprehensive support and resources to the victim/survivor.
If you or someone you know has been the victim of sexual assault or misconduct, we strongly encourage you to report it to the UI Police Department.
What to do
If you have been a victim of sexual assault, it is important to remember that you are not alone. The University of Iowa Police Department is here to support you and provide you with the resources you need.
It is important to remember that you are in control of what happens next, and you can choose to make an initial report to police even if you're not sure if you'd like to move forward with a criminal investigation.
Here are the steps you should take if you have been a victim of sexual assault:
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Get to a safe place: If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or your local emergency services. If you are on campus, you can also call UI Police at 319-335-5022 for immediate assistance.
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Seek medical attention: Even if you do not have any physical injuries, it is important to get medical attention as soon as possible. A medical exam can also help preserve any evidence that may be needed for an investigation. You can learn more about the process by watching this video, in which a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner explains the process.
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Report the assault: Reporting the assault to the police can help hold the perpetrator accountable and ensure that appropriate resources and support are provided to you. You can report the assault in person, or over the phone.
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Seek support: Sexual assault can have a significant impact on your emotional well-being. It is important to seek support from a trusted friend, family member, or counselor. The university provides confidential counseling services to students, and there are also many community resources available to survivors of sexual assault.
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Preserve evidence: It is important to preserve any evidence that may be relevant to the case, even if you aren't sure whether you plan to pursue legal action. This may include keeping any clothing or objects that may contain DNA evidence, taking photos of any injuries, and keeping a record of relevant communications. Evidence may only be available for a short time, and preservation is important in case you choose to pursue legal action later.
Remember, sexual assault is never your fault, and you have the right to seek support and justice.
The UI Police Department is not a confidential resource. Confidential, supportive resources are outlined below.
Victim Advocates
An advocate can confidentially answer questions, provide information about options, and help with safety planning. Advocates can also serve as an Advisor to a Complainant and be present for any meetings related to a university resolution process or criminal complaint.
- Rape Victim Advocacy Program (RVAP): (319) 335-6000 (24-hour hotline)
- Domestic Violence Intervention Program: (800) 373-1043 (24-hour hotline)
- Monsoon Asians & Pacific Islanders in Solidarity: (866) 881-4641 (24-hour hotline)
- Nisaa African Family Services: (319) 338-7617
- Transformative Healing: (319) 389-8430
Counseling
The university provides various options for free and confidential counseling for community members.
- University Counseling Service (for students): (319) 335-7294
- Faculty and Staff Services/Employee Assistance Program (EAP) (for faculty and staff): (319) 335-2085
- Women's Resource and Action Center: (319) 335-1486
- Rape Victim Advocacy Program (RVAP): (319) 335-6000
Consultation and Conflict Resolution
The Office of the Ombudsperson provides information in a confidential setting about university policies and procedures. The office can also help with informal resolutions without a formal complaint, including mediation.
- Office of the Ombudsperson: (319) 335-3608
A sexual assault medical exam ensures:
- Physical injuries that may have occurred are promptly identified and addressed.
- Victims may receive medication for the prevention of pregnancy and STIs.
- Evidence may be collected by a sexual assault nurse examiner and preserved for a criminal investigation or university complaint now or in the future.
Sexual assault medical exams are administered by nurses who have received special training through the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) program. The cost of the exam is paid for by the Iowa Attorney General's Office, Crime Victim Assistance Division. Forensic evidence may be collected up to 120 hours after the incident occurs.
You can learn more about the process by watching this video, in which a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner explains the process.
UIHC Emergency Treatment Center: (319) 356-2233
Mercy Hospital: (319) 339-3600
UI Police oversee the criminal investigation of a sexual assault when an incident is reported to police. When the accused individual is affiliated with the university, victims may also have the option to file an administrative complaint based on applicable policies. Depending on which option(s) a victim pursues, there are times when both investigations may occur at the same time.
Educational Opportunities
The university provides education and prevention programs to promote a culture of consent and respect on campus. Preventing sexual assault requires a community effort, and we work closely with campus partners, student organizations, and community organizations to raise awareness and promote positive change.