Portsmouth police faced a disturbing string of sexual assault reports over the weekend — three separate cases in less than 48 hours, each involving different victims and circumstances.
Friday, 12:30 a.m. — Gay Street Incident
Officers were called to Gay Street just after midnight for a report that a woman had been raped. Detectives were notified immediately, and an ambulance transported the victim to the hospital for treatment. She was later advised to meet with detectives for a formal interview.
Child Assault Reported in Columbus
In a separate and deeply troubling case, Columbus police informed Portsmouth officers that a child at a Columbus hospital claimed their father had choked and sexually assaulted them during a visit in Portsmouth. The child’s mother was told she would need to meet with Portsmouth police in person to generate a report. Franklin County Children’s Services had already been alerted.
Saturday, 10 a.m. — SOMC Report
Officers were called to Southern Ohio Medical Center on Saturday morning after a patient reported being sexually assaulted. Police took the initial report and began an investigation.
⚠️ If You or Someone You Know is Assaulted — Here’s What to Do Immediately
Get to Safety — remove yourself from the location if possible.
Call 911 Immediately — even if you’re unsure about pressing charges, reporting helps secure evidence and prevent further harm.
Seek Medical Attention — go to the hospital as soon as possible for treatment and evidence collection.
Avoid Bathing or Changing Clothes — this can preserve crucial forensic evidence.
Reach Out for Support — contact a trusted friend, family member, or a sexual assault hotline like RAINN’s National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673.
Follow Up with Law Enforcement — schedule a detective interview to provide a detailed statement.
Sexual assault is a crime that thrives in silence — and police stress that quick reporting is critical to catching offenders and protecting others.