Sexual Assault

Sexual assault is a violent crime in which the assailant uses sex to inflict violence, humiliation, and/or control on the victim. This type of assault can include rape, incest, child molestation, marital rape, exposure, and voyeurism.

Many victims thought it could never happen to them. The fact is that sexual assault can happen to anyone. Sexual assault victims can range in age from a few months old to women in their 90's.

Among the common myths is that victims are somehow to blame because of something that they did, said, or wore. The truth is that most sexual assaults are planned acts of violence and control - and NOT about sex. Sex happens to be the assailant's weapon of choice.

There are ways to reduce the chance that you will become a victim of sexual assault:

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• If a person makes you feel uncomfortable, get away from them.
• Don't let yourself be alone with a person you barely know or just met.
• Taking a self-defense class is a great idea.
• Place good locks on your home's doors and windows.
• Know who you are opening your door to.
• If you are a female living alone, don't put your name in the phone book or use your initials only with your last name.
• Know your neighbors.
• When driving, don't pick up hitchhikers.
• If you walk or jog regularly, take different routes - don't be predictable! Stay in well-lighted areas.