Sexual Assault

Forensic evidence kits are available at New Brunswick hospitals through forensic nurse examiners (FNEs) who specialize in sexual assault cases.
These kits collect bodily evidence from the assault that can be used in police investigations.
The kits are most effective when done closest to the assault and can be done up to two weeks following the assault.
To collect the most evidence possible, it is recommended to not change clothes, shower, or urinate before completing the kit.

Ask for a Forensic Nurse Examiner or Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner upon hospital arrival.
You will be asked to describe the sexual assault prior to beginning the kit, along with your medical history and emotional state.
Consent for kit is given. You do not have to consent to all sections of the kit – completion of each procedure is your choice.
Clothing removed and collected.
External examination for physical injuries and foreign material on the body.
Internal examination of areas involved in the assault. Involves a pelvic examination, oral, and genital swabs.
Treatment is offered. May be given medications to prevent STBBIs and pregnancy, and referrals for psychological treatment and follow-ups with family doctor.
This process is long. If completing all procedures, it can take up to 8 hours, but the time frame varies between situations.

Following the kit:

Evidence can be immediately given to the police or can be frozen for up to six months. If not used after six months, the kit is destroyed.
Follow-up testing for pregnancy and STBBIs is recommended 1-6 weeks after the assault. Swabs done immediately after the assault will not show pregnancy or infection caused by the assault.
*Note: You may seek medical attention without completing a forensic evidence kit if you do not wish to do so.

Following a sexual assault, reports can be made directly to local police.

Campus Sexual Assault Support Advocates (CSASAs):

For students looking for guidance in reporting a sexual assault, Campus Sexual Assault Support Advocates are available through phone and email.
CSASAs offer remote counselling and help in reporting sexual assault for students at UNB, STU, and NBCC.
- Fredericton campus: 453-4530
- St. John campus: 648-2309
- Email: csasa@svnb.ca

Provide a statement and description of the sexual assault.
Identify any suspects and witnesses. They may be contacted for interviews.
Provide a forensic evidence kit if you choose to do so.
Evidence is given to the Crown Prosecutor.
- If there is insufficient evidence, the Crown Prosecutor will not approve the charge.
- If there is sufficient evidence, the suspect will be charged.

In Canada, charges are based on the level of sexual assault. There are three levels.

Sexual assault (s.271)
Sexual assault with a weapon, threats to a third party, or causing bodily harm (s. 272)
Aggravated sexual assault (s. 273)

Information about sentences can be found here:

+ Sexual Violence New Brunswick Support Line

(506) 454-0437
Available every day from 5 PM-8 AM.

Speak one-on-one with an SVNB volunteer for support and information on resources related to sexual assault.

+ Sexual Violence New Brunswick Intervention Services

(506) 454-0460.

Call for information on counselling, support groups, systems victim’s advocacy, and more.