If you have been or are currently being harassed or experience abuse, please contact the Sex Workers Project at swp@urbanjustice.org or (646) 602-5690. The Sex Workers Project provides free legal services for sex workers and those who are at risk for engaging in sex work. We will help you examine your legal options, refer you to a sexual assault counselor, and help you contact the police to make a complaint, if that is what you want to do.
However, if you believe you are in immediate danger, call 911 immediately.
Almost every hospital in New York City has a rape crisis program with volunteers to support, assist and advocate for you in the Emergency Room. Survivors should be aware that the police will not be contacted unless the survivor requests their assistance. Although the aftermath of a sexual assault is especially traumatic, there are a number of excellent resources available to survivors.
NYC Alliance: Survivors of Sexual Assault
A page of useful information from the NYC Alliance Against Sexual Assault, giving advice for assault survivors.
NYC Alliance: Hotlines
A list of hotlines to call for help if you have been sexually assaulted.
Anti-Violence Project
The Anti-Violence Project serves NY's gay, transgender, bisexual and HIV communities.
Office for Prevention of Domestic Violence
Part of the NY Department of Health
Tel: 1-800-942-6906 (English)
Tel: 1-800-942-6908 (Spanish)
New York Civil Liberties Union
Information for the rights of minors who have been sexually assaulted can be
found under the Reproductive Rights Project of NYCLU.
Tel: 1-212-344-3005
Sex Workers Project (UJC)
The Sex Workers Project of the Urban Justice Center
Tel: 1-646-602-5690
Mail: swp@urbanjustice.org
Prostitutes of New York
Tel: 1-212-713-5678
Mail: pony@panix.com
The New York City Police Department has Special Victims Liaison Units, which investigate cases of sexual assault and abuse. The Special Victims Unit Report Line provides information, referrals and can initiate a police report of a sex crime. They are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and speak Spanish. Their number is (646) 610-RAPE.
You have the option of contacting Manhattan Special Victims Squad (MSVS) directly at 212-694-3148. You can contact your local police precinct or other local law enforcement -- however, the Special Victims Unit is supposed to be trained to assist survivors and presumably will be more sensitive. Again, if you are nervous or scared about contacting the police by yourself, call the Sex Workers Project at (646) 602-5690 and we will assist you in contacting the police.
Sex crimes are investigated either by the precinct where the crime occurred or by the Special Victims Squads in each borough. The Report Line can appropriately refer callers to the right place for follow-up.