What Is Sexual Assault?

Sexual assault is a crime that is an attack with sexual connotations that is inflicted on an individual intended to terrorize, humiliate, hurt, and exert control over a victim. Rape is an act of sexual penetration of another person without that person's consent. Both sexual assault and rape are violent acts of aggression.

Facts About Sexual Assault
You may be a survivor of sexual assault:

• Even if  he is not a stranger. 75% of sexual assaults fall into the category of non-stranger rape.

• Even if  you are incapacitated by drugs or alcohol. Being incapacitated does not imply permission for sex. In fact, it renders you incapable of giving your consent.

• Even if  you have a prior sexual history with other people or this person, even if you are married. You have the right to have your wishes adhered to. You always have the right to say "no".

• Even if  you did not fight back physically or have no signs of the assault. Almost all sexual assault survivors state that they were in fear for their lives during the assault. For many, this fear makes them incapable of physically fighting their attacker.

If you think you have been sexually assaulted seek professional counseling in order to begin healing from the trauma. You can reach the Domestic Abuse & Sexual Assault Crisis Center's hotline at 1-866-6BE-SAFE