Rape and sexual assault victims

Rape is sexual intercourse without consent. More often than not, the victim and the attacker know each other. Sexual assault is the touching of another person in a sexually aggressive manner without consent. It may or may not involve actual injury. In both instances, the lack of verbal or physical resistance because of force, or threat of force, does not mean consent.

The best defenses against rape and sexual assault are alertness and awareness. At all times, including dating situations, you should:

• Let a friend, family member or roommate know with whom you will be, where you will be, and when you expect to return.
• Leave an address and phone number.
• Do not let peer pressure influence the amount of alcohol you drink. Studies have shown that alcohol is a factor in a large number of sexual assaults and rapes.
• Trust your feelings and instincts. If you feel threatened, there's probably a good reason. Get away fast.
• Report any assault or threat of assault to the Vice-Chancellor for Student Services; and/or the police department having jurisdiction as soon as possible.

In selecting dating partners, beware of a person who:

• Ignores your wishes
• Becomes hostile or angry when you say "no"
• Tries to make you feel guilty when you say "no"
• Ignores your personal space boundaries
• Is quick to show anger or aggression
• Is excessively jealous or possessive
• Doesn't listen to what you say
• Forces you to constantly ward off advances
• Expresses hostile feelings.

Your first few dates with an individual should be in public places. Always have an alternate way home.

If you are the victim of a rape or sexual assault, get to a safe place as soon as you can. Then you should:

• Try to preserve all physical evidence.
• Do not bathe, douche, use the toilet or change clothing.
• Notify the police-even if you are unsure about filing charges.
• Get medical attention as soon as possible. The police will assist you with this.
• Call a close friend, family member or other trusted person who can be with you during the interview with the police.
• Use the victim-assistance services (IUKPD’s Sexual Assault Assistance Team) and/or other community agencies.

Other sex crimes

Sex crimes are not limited to rape and sexual assault. Other types of offensive and unacceptable behavior are crimes and should be dealt with accordingly. Exhibitionists, voyeurs, and persons who make obscene or harassing phone calls could be subject to criminal charges. While such persons often do not carry out physical attacks, you have no assurance that they will not. Don't take chances. Report all incidences to the police.

Sex Crimes Prevention Act

This act amends the Jacob Wetterling Crimes Against Children and Sexually Violent Offender Registration Act to require sex offenders already required to register in a State, to provide notice, as required under state law, to each institution of higher education in that State which that person is employed, carries on a vocation, or is a student.

The Indiana statewide Sex Offender Registry can be accessed via the Web at:

http://www.insor.org/insasoweb

and the National Sex Offender Registry can be accessed via the Internet at: