Springfield Police Department Reporting Increase in Sexual Assault Cases

Officers with the Springfield Police Department say they are investigating more sexual assault cases than usual.

The department investigated 337 cases of sexual assault during the 2022 calendar year, but say there were 21 cases reported during a two week span from February 13-26 of this year.

SPD says they want to get this information out to protect potential victims, and offer tips to combat a possible attacker.

Officers say to plan in advance how to confront someone and be prepared to fight if necessary.

If meeting a stranger for the first time, pick a public place, provide your own transportation and only accept drinks from employees if you are drinking.

Do not reveal personal information about yourself and avoid sending compromising pictures.

The department warns that most sexual assault cases occur when the victim knows their attacker, so do not let your guard down.

The Springfield Police Department says the most important thing to remember in the case of a sexual assault: it’s never the victim’s fault.