Do sexual assault victims usually know the perpetrator?

Sexual assault victims usually know the person responsible for the assault, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Visit the FAQ at USA.gov for more information.

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, please call 911. 

Sexual violence (also called sexual assault or rape) refers to sexual activity where consent is not obtained or freely given. There are many types of sexual violence and anyone can be a victim, but most victims are female. The person responsible for the violence is typically male and is usually someone known to the victim. The person can be, but is not limited to, a friend, coworker, neighbor, or family member.  

There are crisis centers and agencies in every state and territory that work to stop assaults and help victims. You can find contact information for these organizations on the Violence against Women web page from WomensHealth.gov. You can also obtain the numbers of shelters, counseling services, and legal assistance from your local phone book. 

You may wish to view answers to frequently asked questions about sexual assault, or you may wish to access more information from the following agencies:

• Sexual Violence - Information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
• Date Rape Drugs - Answers to frequently asked questions about date rape drugs from WomensHealth.gov.
• What is Rape and Date Rape? - Information for young girls from GirlsHealth.gov.
• Sexual Assault and Rape - A list of organizations that can provide information on rights and services provided to victims of sexual assault and rape, from the Office for Victims of Crimes (OVC).
• Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention (SHARP) Program - The United States Army's campaign to urge all soldiers to prevent sexual assaults before they occur.
• Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office (SAPRO) - This Department of Defense (DOD) website provides guidance and other information for victims of sexual assault, unit commanders, first responders, and those who wish to prevent or respond to this crime.

April is observed as Sexual Assault Awareness Month as a way to raise awareness about and to promote prevention of sexual violence through special events and public education. You may wish to view the presidential proclamation for 2010. 

Information about the following topics is also available:

• Child Abuse
• Elder Abuse
• Domestic Abuse
• Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
• Report Child Pornography
• Sex Offender Registries

By USA.gov team