The police role in rape investigation involves interactions with the victim, the crime scene, the hospital, and the judicial system. Guidelines for the initial interview, evidence collection, and response to the victim's needs are presented. Additional information for dealing with young children and male victims is also outlined. Rape investigation procedure call for conducting initial victim interviews; escorting victims to the hospital for treatment and evidence collection; investigating the rape scene; questioning the subject; and conducting witness interviews as well as followup victim interviews. A brief description of the judicial process details needed improvements in judicial attitudes toward rape prosecution and rape victims. Resources available through the District Attorney's offices are also discussed. For example, some very progressive district attorneys have a sexual assault unit comprised of attorneys who are highly successful in guiding the victim through the court process and making the ordeal of testifying easier for the victim (which often leads to higher conviction rates). Police investigators should be aware of barriers to successful investigation and prosecution resulting from both the victim's and the officer's lack of knowledge, misperceptions, or personal feelings. Objective, yet caring and sensitive investigators can reduce such barriers. Community education programs are also needed to familiarize the public with rape investigation procedures. A case study and tables on both the type and collection of evidence and interview topics are provided. Seven footnotes are appended.