Community Announcements

Crime Victim Notification

Crime Victims Notification If you are the victim of a crime, you have the right to know what's happening with your case and the offender. Your Rights as a Victim If you've been the victim of a violent crime, you deserve to know what's happening with your case and the offender. You have legal rights to stay informed about the offender's conviction, sentence, imprisonment, and release. Learn more about victims' rights in Texas. How Texas Integrated Victim Services System for Counties (IVSS-Counties) Can Help You Stay Informed Texas IVSS-Counties is a free, secure service that automatically notifies registered persons via a toll-free number and website of suspect/offender status and court event changes. Here's how it can help: 24/7 Notifications: Texas IVSS-Counties sends automatic notifications in English or Spanish whenever one of the following situations occurs: The suspect/offender is booked or released A court event has been set or changed A change in custody status, such as death, escape, or transferred to TDCJ custody Access to Case Information: You can get information about the offender's criminal case. Visit the Texas IVSS-Counties portal anytime to search for offenders in custody, access services, or receive general guidance without registering. Secure & Confidential: Your information is kept private while you receive notifications. Flexible Notifications: Choose how and when you want to be contacted (text, call, or email), and set blackout dates or preferred hours. One-Time Registration: Stay notified about custody changes without having to register multiple times. Manage Your Preferences Anytime: Pause notifications, update your contact information, or view your history whenever you choose. How to Contact Texas IVSS-Counties You can reach out to Texas IVSS-Counties in a variety of ways to get the support you need: Online: Visit the Texas IVSS-Counties portal to search for offenders, register, or find victim services in your area. Phone Support (24/7): Call (866)268-8959 for help in English or Spanish. You can talk to a live operator for assistance with offender information, registering for updates, or finding victim services. TDCJ Victim Services: If the offender is in the custody of the TDCJ, you can contact their Victim Services Division at (800) 848-4294 for additional support. Important to Remember While Texas IVSS-Counties is a valuable tool to help you stay informed, it is not a guarantee of safety. It's important to always take additional steps to protect yourself, and to reach out to local crime victim service providers at your district attorney's office, law enforcement agency, or supervising agency for further support. Not all Texas counties are set up with Texas IVSS-Counties. Check the Texas IVSS-Counties portal to see if your county participates.

SASTF Publications

SASTF Publications Reports The Sexual Assault Survivors’ Task Force Biennial Report to the Legislature is required by Texas Government Code § 772.064. As part of our ongoing commitment to transparency and accountability, the Sexual Assault Survivors’ Task Force (SASTF) posts copies of its Biennial Report on our website to ensure the public can access them. 2024 SASTF Biennial Report to the Texas Legislature 2022 SASTF Biennial Report to the Texas Legislature 2020 SASTF Biennial Report to the Texas Legislature The Sexual Assault Survivors’ Task Force prioritizes survivor-centered research. Below are summaries of recent research projects and links to the related reports. Texas Sexual Assault Survivors’ Study With funding from the Office of the Texas Governor’s Public Safety Office, The University of Texas – Austin’s Institute on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (IDVSA) and the Bureau of Business Research (BBR) collaborated on a two-part study on service needs and availability for sexual assault and abuse survivors in Texas. The two reports from this project offer findings on (1) baseline availability of resources and services for sexual assault and abuse survivors across Texas, as well as unmet needs and (2) needs and experiences of sexual assault and abuse survivors with existing services. This research was a required component of House Bill 1590, passed in the 86th Legislative Session, which created the Sexual Assault Survivors’ Task Force. Texas Sexual Assault Survivors’ Study (2020-2022) Resources for Texas Sexual Assault Survivors: Inventory and Survey Findings on Services, Gaps, and Accessibility (Part 1 - 2020) IDVSA and the BBR developed and implemented a statewide survey to a broad and diverse set of providers who serve survivors of sexual violence, and then conducted a collaborative analysis of the survey findings with a specific focus on service availability and service gaps. The Resources for Texas Sexual Assault Survivors report offers findings on baseline availability of resources for sexual assault survivors across Texas, as well as unmet needs, capacity limitations, and the impact of COVID-19 on service providers. These findings were presented in a report to the Office of the Texas Governor along with an inventory list of resources for survivors across the state to inform the creation of a comprehensive statewide service directory. Voices of Texas Sexual Assault Survivors: Services, Gaps, and Recovery Journeys (Part 2 - 2022) IDVSA interviewed survivors of sexual assault and abuse to assess their experiences and needs (met and unmet) for sexual assault-specific services and resources in Texas. This report is based on an analysis of in-depth, trauma-informed interviews with survivors of sexual assault and parents/guardians of child survivors of sexual abuse. IDVSA and BBR conducted this research to understand survivors’ recovery journeys after sexual violence, focusing on experiences with the formal service system and other available resources. Findings were developed based on independent and collaborative analyses of interview themes and were presented in a report to the Office of the Texas Governor. Adult Survivors' Rights Guide (and other resources) First Responder Guide to Adult Sexual Assault Cases (and other resources)

Resources for Campuses

Resources for Campuses Addressing sexual assault on college campuses involves navigating a complex landscape of institutional policies, as well as state and federal requirements. To support Texas campuses in creating safer and more supportive environments for students who are survivors, the SASTF curated the following list of resources designed to enhance college campus prevention strategies, promote best practices in handling sexual assault cases, and foster a survivor-centered approach. By leveraging these resources, campuses can better equip their staff to prevent and respond to sexual assault. The University of Texas at Austin's Institute on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (IDVSA) The University of Texas at Austin’s Institute on Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault (IDVSA) helps campuses create safe environments through research and training. In addition to incorporating student researchers into all aspects of their work, IDVSA works with multi-disciplinary partners across the University of Texas at Austin and the broader University of Texas System. The IDVSA Blueprint for Campus Police Toolkit is a multi-level approach to the complex problem of campus sexual assault that builds upon the existing body of knowledge and recognizes the need for identifying emerging best practices. The Blueprint was developed through in-depth interviews, field observations, and a thorough review of the policies and practices pertaining to campus sexual assault. This resource is intended to serve as a guide for law enforcement at all levels (chief executives, investigation, and patrol) to implement a victim-centered and trauma-informed approach to campus sexual assault. IDVSA Bystander Intervention Programs are evidence and theory-based violence prevention. Programs engage and train community members to actively disrupt and respond to harmful language, acts, and behaviors, such as sexual assault, hate speech, hazing, and suicide. IDVSA researchers developed these resources as part of an effort to understand, evaluate, and strengthen the bystander intervention programming offered across the UT System’s eight academic institutions. IDVSA Sexual Assault Response Tools are empirically-based training tools created specifically for professionals who conduct the daily work of combating sexual assault and responding to victims of this crime. All resources are trauma-informed, victim-centered, and based upon extensive research and the accumulated expertise of IDVSA and practitioner partners. National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Sexual Violence Prevention Toolkit This toolkit provides athletics departments with collaborative strategies to support safer campus environments. Clery Center The Clery Center is a national nonprofit dedicated to helping college and university officials meet the standards of the Jeanne Clery Act by equipping professionals with the training and resources they needed to understand compliance requirements. The Clery Center's Resources Page covers topics such as Clery implementation and compliance and the prevention of and response to dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking. Association of Title IX Administrators Association of Title IX Administrators (ATIXA) The Association of Title IX Administrators (ATIXA) is a professional organization dedicated to supporting Title IX coordinators and administrators. It provides resources, training, and best practices for handling issues related to gender equity, discrimination, and sexual misconduct in educational institutions. ATIXA aims to ensure compliance with Title IX regulations, promote safety, and foster a culture of respect and inclusion on campuses. The organization offers tools, policy templates, webinars, and an extensive resource library for Title IX professionals. The ATIXA Resources Page provides an extensive library of materials for Title IX professionals. Resources include case law, model policies, toolkits, online learning modules, regulation publications, webinars, and more. These materials are designed to support compliance, training, and effective administration of Title IX. The page also offers access to training modules and thought leadership on various aspects of Title IX administration and sexual violence prevention.

About SASTF

About the SASTF | Office of the Texas Governor | Greg Abbott Skip to main content About SASTF History of the Sexual Assault Survivors’ Task Force Created by House Bill 1590 during the 86th Legislative Session (Representative Donna Howard and Senator Kirk Watson), the Sexual Assault Survivors’ Task Force (SASTF) is housed in the Office of the Governor's Public Safety Office and seeks to establish a survivor-centered, trauma-informed, collaborative, and coordinated response to sexual violence experienced by adults and children in Texas. As mandated by Texas Government Code § 772.0064, the SASTF Steering Committee includes the Office of the Governor, the Texas Association Against Sexual Assault (TAASA), and the Children’s Advocacy Centers of Texas (CACTX). The statute further mandates Task Force representation from agencies across Texas with duties related to the prevention, investigation, or prosecution of sexual assault and other sex offenses, as well as agencies that provide services to survivors. The SASTF also includes other members as designated by the Steering Committee. Sexual Assault Survivors’ Task Force - Member Organizations

Resources for Survivors

The first step in any journey is often the hardest. Reaching out for help can feel daunting. Whether the abuse happened years ago or more recently, your story matters and you deserve care and support. The Sexual Assault Survivors’ Task Force has assembled a searchable on-line directory containing up-to-date information about resources for survivors. Below are links to the directory along with informational guides developed by the Task Force to be used by survivors and those supporting survivors. Resources for Sexual Assault Survivors Online Directory (This service provider directory is searchable by organization name, services, and city. Search results may include local and statewide service providers. If you are unsure about which services are included under each category, please visit the Service Definition page.) Your Rights as a Survivor - Adult Sexual Assault Digital Print Spanish Your Rights as a Survivor - A Guide for Caregivers of Children Who Experienced Sexual Abuse and Sexual Exploitation Digital The Children’s Commission established a working group of various state agencies and organizations to develop a guide for children who have experienced sexual abuse and exploitation. The purpose of the guide is to empower caregivers by providing an overview of the child’s rights, which professionals are involved, and how to access resources. The guide includes common terms and helpful links, and explains the roles and responsibilities throughout a case including: Reporting and Safety Department of Family and Protective Services Civil Investigation and Civil Court Proceedings Law Enforcement Criminal Investigation and Criminal Court Proceedings Support and Protection Resources for Male Survivors Sexual assault and abuse can affect anyone, including boys and men. Despite this reality, male survivors often face significant barriers to recognition, disclosure, and healing. In an effort to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and connect male survivors with compassionate, trauma-informed support, the SASTF has curated the following list tailored to their needs. MaleSurvivor MaleSurvivor.Org MaleSurvivor is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing, healing, and eliminating the sexual victimization of boys and men. Since 1995, MaleSurvivor has cultivated a global healing community grounded in compassion, peer support, and trauma-informed care. Guided by a volunteer board and supported by survivor advocates and clinical professionals, the organization works to advance healing through education, advocacy, personalized support, and public awareness. MaleSurvivor’s For Survivors page offers a central hub of resources for men at any stage of the healing journey. Survivors can explore self-help tools, learn about common effects of trauma, and access information on navigating emotions like shame, anger, and isolation. 1in6 1in6.Org 1in6 is a nonprofit organization formed to support men who have experienced sexual abuse or assault, with a mission to help them live healthier, happier lives. Named for the statistic that at least one in six men have had unwanted or abusive sexual experiences by age 18, the organization offers evidence-informed resources and programming rooted in trauma-informed care. 1in6 engages in education, outreach, and advocacy efforts to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and expand access to support for male survivors. 1in6 Trauma Recovery Video Series This video series offers brief, accessible tools for male survivors navigating trauma and recovery. Each video provides a guided practice or reflection, led by trauma-informed professionals, to support emotional regulation, grounding, and healing. The series is designed to be approachable and flexible, making it easy for survivors to incorporate moments of self-care into their daily lives. 1in6 Male Survivor Stories This page features personal stories from men who have experienced sexual abuse or assault,offering insight into the varied paths survivors take toward healing. Through written and video testimonials, survivors share their challenges, breakthroughs, and reflections in their own words. The collection helps reduce isolation, challenge stigma, and foster hope for others who may be early in their healing journey. Other Resources "Becoming Whole" by Mikey Betancourt, Marcus Reese, and Arturo Mireles This heartfelt article, written by three SASTF male survivor leaders for the SASTF Newsletter, describes their individual paths to healing and definitions of "becoming whole" We encourage visitors to read and, hopefully, draw inspiration as they consider their own journeys to healing and definitons of "becoming whole". Texas Association Against Sexual Assault (TAASA) — Guidance Document to Enhance Services for Male Survivors of Sexual Violence Developed by Emiliano Diaz de Leon, Men's Engagement Specialist with the Texas Association Against Sexual Assault (TAASA), this guidance document offers practical strategies and considerations for improving outreach and services to male survivors of sexual violence. It explores barriers to disclosure, the impact of social norms on male survivors, and the importance of survivor-centered, trauma-informed approaches. The resource is designed for service providers, advocates, and allied professionals seeking to create more inclusive, affirming spaces for men and boys affected by sexual violence. TAASA Resource Library Texas A&M Health Center of Excellence in Forensic Nursing: Texas Sexual Assault Medical Forensic & Advocacy Services Map This interactive map, compiled by the Texas A&M Health Center of Excellence in Forensic Nursing, allows users to view the locations of all Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) Programs, Children's Advocacy Centers and Rape Crisis Centers in the State of Texas on a county-by-county basis. View Map

Resources for SARTs

Resources for Sexual Assault Response Teams (SARTs) | Office of the Texas Governor | Greg Abbott Skip to main content Resources for Sexual Assault Response Teams (SARTs) Senate Bill 476 (87R) requires all Texas counties to form an adult Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) in an effort to create a statewide infrastructure of resources, awareness, connection, and coordination to address sex crimes locally. A SART is a formalized coordinated response to a sexual assault that allows multi-disciplinary professionals to coordinate and develop interagency responses to work together to address sexual assault by providing wrap-around support and communication. The Texas Local Government Code, Chapter 351, Subchapter J requires each commissioner’s court of each county to establish an adult SART. Counties with a population of 250,000 residents or fewer have the option of partnering with nearby counties to form a regional SART. The commissioner’s court must invite all statutory members that provide services within a county to participate. If you have any questions or need assistance, the Texas Association Against Sexual Assault (TAASA) is able to provide training and technical assistance for the implementation and sustainability of SARTs. Send an email to [email protected] with your question and contact information and someone from the organization will follow up with you. TAASA - Resources for SARTs

Resources for Law Enforcement

Resources for Law Enforcement | Office of the Texas Governor | Greg Abbott Skip to main content Resources for Law Enforcement To ensure survivors of sexual assault are treated with respect and empathy and are not further traumatized during initial reporting to law enforcement and throughout the investigation, additional and ongoing training for law enforcement professionals is recommended. Accordingly, the SASTF has compiled a list of resources and training opportunities for Texas’ law enforcement officers. This list will be updated periodically. First Responder's Sexual Assault Guide This guide provides best practices for initial interactions with an adult sexual assault survivor through a trauma-informed, victim/survivor-centered, and offender-focused response. The guide was developed through a multidisciplinary, collaborative approach and is available for law enforcement officers in Texas. Print Digital Spanish

Resources for Healthcare Professionals

Healthcare professionals play a critical role in responding to sexual violence. Providing care to patients who have experienced sexual violence requires an understanding of trauma-informed, patient-centered approaches, in addition to applicable legal and professional responsibilities. To support Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs), physicians, physician assistants, nurses, healthcare administrators, and other healthcare professionals, the Sexual Assault Survivors’ Task Force (SASTF) has compiled the following resources and training opportunities. Mandated Forensic Evidence Collection Training for Physicians and Physician Assistants The 89th Texas Legislature passed House Bill 47, SASTF’s Omnibus Bill, requiring emergency room physicians and physician assistants (PAs) to complete at least two hours of continuing medical education relating to forensic evidence collection. The purpose of this training is to equip physicians and PAs who may encounter sexual assault survivors and conduct Sexual Assault Forensic Exams (SAFEs) with the skills to provide proper trauma-informed care and maintain the integrity of evidence collected. HB 47 dictates that this training must provide instruction on the provision of trauma-informed care to sexual assault survivors, appropriate community referrals and prophylactic medications, the rights of a sexual assault survivor, forensic evidence collection methods, and applicable state law pertaining to the custody, transfer, and tracking of forensic evidence. The requirement will begin for physicians and PAs whose licenses expire on February 28, 2027. For more information on the mandated forensic evidence collection training, please visit the following Texas Medical Board webpages and scroll to the Forensic Evidence Sections. Continuing Education Requirements for Physicians Continuing Education Requirements for Physician Assistants