Sexual Assault is a crime of violence,power and control. It happens when a person is forced, threatened or coerced into sexual contact against her or his will. It includes unwanted touching, kissing and rape. Anyone may be a victim of rape: women, men or children, straight or gay. Sexual assault is not the victim's fault. No one deserves or asks to be raped or assaulted. What a person wears, how much they drink or how they act does not mean they want to participate in sexual activity. It is also not the victim's fault if they are unable to consent because of alcohol, drugs or disability.
In the United States:
- One in 6 women and 1 in 33 men are victims of sexual violence within their lifetimes.
- Over 2/3 of rapes are committed by someone known to the victim.
- 15% of sexual assault and rape victims are under age 12.
- Girls ages 16-19 are 4 times more likely than the general population to be victims of rape.
Indicators of Sexual Abuse in Relationships:
- Ignoring you when you say "no" to sex
- Pressuring you to perform sexual acts that make you feel uncomfortable or humiliated
- Telling you it's your "duty" to have sex
- Forcing you to look at pornography
- Demanding sex when you're sick or physically unable to participate
- Hitting or choking during sex
- Expecting sex after an argument/fight
If you are a sexual assault survivor you are not alone!
Help is available.
Call our confidential 24 hour hotline at 540-667-6466.
The Laurel Center offers services to survivors and family/friends of survivors.
All services are FREE and CONFIDENTIAL.
- Individual Counseling
- Support Groups
- 24 Hour Hotline
- Legal Advocacy
- Hospital Companionship
- ChildSafe Center Companionship
- Information and Referrals
- Community Education and Awareness