Police visiting tomorrow about ex. What can I expect?

[Helpplease0]

Original thread here - www.mumsnet.com/Talk/relationships/2097675-Messed-up-situation-trigger

I mentioned what happened to my new psychologist and she told me she had to report it to the police. I wasn't planning on reporting the rape as he left the area a week after it happened and hasn't been back. I also don't think I'm brave enough and he is the father of my dd.

The police rang me today and asked to come round to speak to me tomorrow about the case. Could someone advise me about what I can expect? I really don't think I can say everything that happened out loud. I know that sounds weak but I've not been able to since it happened. I also don't feel like it will be taken seriously as it could have been alot worse.

Im so nervous.

[CogitoErgoSometimes]

The police just want to hear your story told your way. Please find the courage to tell them as much as possible and with as much detail as possible. If you can't articulate everything straight away, at least tell them that there is more to it but that you're very anxious. They should treat you respectfully. Your psychologist thinks what happened is serious and I would take strength from that if I were you. If the police know the truth, I'm sure they will take it very, very seriously indeed..

[HumblePieMonster]

Tell them everything you can. I remember your original thread and your experience was horrible. If he will do that to you, he will do it to others.

[Firkyfoodling]

Just take your time, the officer will be specially trained and will go through your options with you. If you want to support prosecution, you will have to give a statement and that means a lot of detail! This will time several hours and can be quite draining. They will more than likely want to seize your phone for evidence so don't delete any messages, just in case. Maybe write a few notes before they arrive so you can get things that happened in a chronological order, might be easier to show them notes than to verbalise? They won't rush or judge you and will talk through a risk assessment so that they can provide safety features to you (panic alarm, police issued phone that goes straight to them etc).
It may be a long process but you are a victim of a sexual assault and he cannot they away with this. Good luck xx

[Firkyfoodling]

Further to that, no forensic opportunities are left as it's been over a week, so no medical procedures would have to take place, so don't worry about that. Many rapes unfortunately by current/ex partners so police have domestic procedures in place xx

[Aussiemum78]

Could you write some of it, rather than say it aloud? Could the police work with that?

[Joysmum]

Mayberry show then the thread, they can then ask you questions. They'll be trained to be able to help you.

[blueeyedmonster]

Just say three little words.......he raped me. They'll lead after that and will notice if you are struggling and ask if you want a break.