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Defining Sexual Assault: Sexual assault is conduct of a sexual nature which is non-consensual, and is accomplished through threat, coercion, exploitation, deceit, force, physical or mental incapacitation, and/or power of authority. Conduct of a sexual nature: Sexual assault includes a wide range of sexual behaviors and sexual activity. Some examples include rape, forcible sodomy, incest, child sexual abuse, unwanted sexual contact or touching, sexual exploitation, forced prostitution and sex trafficking, and sexual harassment. Non-consensual: Sexual assault occurs when someone experiences sexual activity that she or he did not consent to or did not want. Consent cannot be given if a person is underage, drunk, high, unconscious, or physically or mentally incapacitated. A person can change her or his mind about sexual activity at any time and withdraw consent.

If you or someone you know is a victim of sexual assault, please contact the Virginia Family Violence & Sexual Assault Hotline 1-800-838-8238 (24-hours/day, toll-free) For additional sexual assault-related information and resources, please visit the Virginia Sexual and Domestic Violence Action Alliance website at www.vsdvalliance.org. You may also contact the toll-free Virginia Crime Victim Assistance Info-Line at 1-888-887-3418. Additional information regarding the Info-Line can be found at www.dcjs.virginia.gov/victims. (Reprinted from article by the Dept. of Criminal Justices Services.)