Established in 1975, the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape (PCAR) is a statewide nonprofit organization working towards the prevention of sexual violence at both the State and national levels. PCAR utilizes its voice in advocating for the rights of victims and attempting to affect critical change through public policy, education, and prevention. As part of its mission the PCAR created this reference guide to be used in addition to training to aid police officers faced with the numerous tasks of responding to and investigating crimes of sexual violence. Three important steps are emphasized when an officer responds to a report of sexual assault: attend to the victim, gather vital information about the crime, and secure the crime scene and protect the integrity of the evidence. Four areas are addressed in the guide: (1) victims; (2) suspects; (3) investigation; and (4) sexual assault laws. In addition, a checklist is provided and is designed to allow law enforcement personnel to assess their response to sexual assault cases on both an individual State resources are also provided.