Rape and Sexual Assault
Rape and sexual violence can come in many forms.
Rape or sexual assault happen any time you are forced to have sex (including vaginal, anal, or oral) or have unwanted sexual contact of any kind (including touching, kissing) with the abuser or a third party. It can happen even when you know or have a relationship with the offender.
Sexual violence is a common form of domestic violence or intimate partner violence (IPV) in which abusers use sexual assault or coercion as a way to control victims. Oftentimes, victims of IPV do not equate sexual force as abuse, especially when coming from an intimate partner, but it is still abuse.
According to the Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network (RAINN), someone is sexually assaulted every two minutes in the United States, and 68% of these crimes are never reported to the police. Click here to get rape and sexual assault facts, information, and resources.
The complete brochure on sexual assault, written by Los Angeles District Attorney Jackie Lacey (in English and Spanish), offers more information on the importance of reporting sexual assault, the legal process, victims’ rights, victims’ services, and a full list of sexual assault hotline resources throughout Los Angeles County.
Getting Help Immediately After an Incident of Rape or Sexual Assault
It is extremely difficult to think clearly after being a victim of a traumatic experience like rape or sexual assault. Remember: it is not your fault and you did not deserve to be sexually violated.
If you are seeking information on what you can and should do next, or if you are looking for advice on how to help a friend who has just been victimized, Peace Over Violence provides guidance on their website.
Resources and Services Available for Victims of Sexual Assault
RAINN can also assist you with any of the following: