What is rape?
Rape is a crime of violence almost always perpetrated against women and children by men. The perpetrator overpowers, intimidates, and degrades the victims.Facts:
- Forcible rape is one of the four major violent crimes in the U.S. (FBI)
- Rape is the most under reported crime (FBI)
- Only about one in ten rapes are actually reported (FBI)
- In 87% of the rapes, the rapist either carried a weapon or threatened the victim. (Phila Study)
- 50% of all rapes occur in the victim’s home (Wash. DC Rape Crisis Center)
- 71% of all rapes are premeditated. (Phila Study)
- Nicholas Broth reports that one-thirds of all rapists are married. (Men Who Rape)
- In no instance was the rape assailant’s first and only available sexual encounter. (Men Who
- Rape)
- In acquittal rape for rape exceeds that of any other felony. (66 ABA Journal)
- There are twice as many women raped by their husbands as by strangers. (Diane Russell, Rape
- in Marriage)
- 1 in 3 women and 1 in 10 men will be raped sometime in their life. (FBI)
- Someone known to the survivor commits 80% of all sexual assaults. (FBI)
What Can You Do?
- Be aware of your surroundings and walk with confidence.
- Avoid drugs and alcohol.
- Be assertive - don't let anyone violate your space.
- Trust your instincts.
- Avoid propping open self-locking doors.
- Lock your doors and windows no matter how soon you will return.
- Watch your keys. Don't lend them. Don't leave them. Don't lose them. Have your key ready to use BEFORE you get to a door.
- Be aware of unwated visitors.
- Avoid isolated spots like underground parking when possible, and walking or jogging alone, especially at night.
- Use well-traveled streets, park in well-lit areas, and always lock your car.
- NEVER hitchhike or pick up a hitchhiker.