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What constitutes rape?

Rape is sexual contact WITHOUT CONSENT gained by force or the threat of force.

In Missouri forcible rape is legally defined as sexual intercourse with another person without that other person’s consent and by the use of forcible compulsion.

All other types of rapes are identified as sodomy under Missouri statutes.

What is consent?

	Consent is based on CHOICE
	Consent is ACTIVE, not passive
	Consent is possible only when there is equal power
	If you cannot say “no” safely and comfortably, then “yes” has no meaning
	Cooperation does not equal consent
	Going along with an activity because of deceit is not consent
	Giving in because of fear or pressure is not consent
	If you are unwilling to accept “no, “yes” has no meaning

According to Missouri state law, consent may be expressed or implied, but it can not be given if a person is unable to make a reasonable decision to consent due to:

		Youth
		Intoxication
		Mental Disease

Facts about rape

	198,850 people are raped per year
	545 people are raped per day
	An average of 23 people are raped EVERY HOUR
	61% of forcible rapes occur before victims reach age 18
	29% occur when the victim is younger than 11 years old
	32% occur when the victim is between ages 11 and 17
	Giving in because of fear or pressure is not consent
	If you are unwilling to accept “no, “yes” has no meaning

Sadly, only 16 percent of rapes are reported to police.

Who Can be an Attacker?

While it is possible that an attacker may be a stranger, 78% of rape survivors report they know their attackers, while only 22% reported they were raped by a stranger.

If You are Raped or Sexually Assaulted

		You are the victim of a crime. Do not blame yourself.
		If you intend to prosecute do not shower or bathe. Go as you are to seek medical care.
		Seek help and support.

Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network
1-800-655-HOPE or 1-800-656-4673

Emergency numbers

Crisis Line
642-4422

Toll Free
1 (866) 642-4422

National Hotline
1-800-799-7233

>> more resources

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Questions - Answers

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