Rape is a crime of violence. It has nothing to do with sex. Rape is not a crime of prejudice in that it happens to women of all ages, races, marital status, education and social positions.Also referred to as sexual assault, rape can be defined as forced (or threat of forced) anal, oral, and/or vaginal penetration by part of another person's body, or penetration by an object.
Approximately one in
every three women will be sexually assaulted in her lifetime. Eighty percent (80%) of all rape victims know their attacker. More than one-half of all rapes occur in the victim's home.
All women are potential
victims of rape. It is estimated that 16 rapes or attempted rapes are reported every hour in the United States. If you or someone you know should become a victim of rape, REMEMBER:
- Do NOT clean up, bathe, douche or change clothes;
- Do not straighten up or touch anything at the scene;
- Call your local law enforcement and/or 911; and,
- Have a medical examination as soon as possible.
The person who raped you has most likely raped before and will probably do so again. PLEASE report your assault to law enforcement even if you do not plan to prosecute. The information you have may help
officials ensure that another woman is not victimized at the hand of your assailant.
