Sexual Assault
Reporting an Incident | How to Help a Friend | Facts about Sexual Assault | What to DoWhat is Sexual Assault?
| Resources The National Women’ Health Information Center The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network The Feminist Majority Foundation |
Sexual assault is any unwanted sexual contact obtained without consent and/or obtained through the use of force, threat of force, intimidation or coercion. Victims do not have to physically fight back.
Sexual assault, or criminal sexual conduct, is legally categorized in the first, second, third or fourth degree. Criminal sexual conduct in the first and third degree are acts of sexual penetration and Criminal Sexual Conduct in the second and fourth degree are acts of sexual contact. Depending on the circumstances, the penalty ranges from probation up to life.
Anyone can be the victim of a sexual assault regardless of gender, age, race, culture, social status or sexual orientation. However, the majority of sexual assault victims are women. Most victims of sexual assault know their assailant.
Remember….
- Even if you have consented to sex before with your partner….
- Even if you are in a serious relationship with your partner….
- Even if you are married to your partner….
SEX WITHOUT CONSENT IS RAPE