New Report: Sexual Assault Rates in the U.S. Doubled
Friday, October 18, 2019 11:40 AM

Recently released data from the U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Statistics, contains alarming statistics about rape and sexual assault in the United States in 2018. The report found that rape and sexual assault constituted thirty-seven percent of all violent victimization during that year. Self-reported incidents of rape or sexual assault more than doubled. Furthermore, reporting rates of sexual assault and rape continue to be low, as many victims are afraid to self-report. This barrier to reporting makes it difficult to gauge the actual rates of assault.

The Department of Justice gathered this data when the news cycle was dominated by the rise of the #MeToo movement, the nomination of Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court, and the allegations against Harvey Weinstein. Due to these events, public discourse during this period of time raised awareness about the prevalence of sexual assault in the United States. Reports such as this one emphasize the importance of preventing sexual violence and harassment in the future and fostering healthy relationships and safety within communities.  

Compiled from: Benner, Jennifer, New Data - Sexual Assault Rates Doubled, National Sexual Violence Resource Center (Oct 10, 2019).