Sexual Assault is a touch or act that is sexual in content and is used for the gratification of the perpetuator by force, threat of force, trickery, coercion, bribery, or between two people where an imbalance exists in age, size, power, development or knowledge.

Sexual assault is a deliberate, hostile, and sometimes violent act of aggression that uses sex as a weapon. It is a crime of power, intended to degrade, intimidate, and to overpower.

Victims of sexual assault are often uncertain about what they should do. They may be afraid or embarrassed to talk to anyone about their circumstances. In more than half of reported cases, the victim and rapist are friends, acquaintances, or relatives. This can make discussion of the assault even more difficult for the victim.

Most rapists are repeat offenders. A victim can help prevent further assaults by reporting the incident to the police. As she decides whether or not she wants to report the assault, the Women's Resource Center can provide a trained advocate who can discuss options and give information to the victim . If the crime is reported, then the woman will be eligible for related medical care and counseling through Crime Victim's Assistance.