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What is Sexual Assault?

Category
Reviewed by
Jan 25, 2023

Sexual assault includes all unwanted sexual activity, from unwanted sexual touching to rape, it also includes the threat of sexual contact and sexual activity with people unable to consent such as those under the age of consent or are unconscious. It can involve situations where agreement to sexual activity is obtained through coercion or by someone abusing a position of trust, power and authority. Sexual assault is a crime.

If you are in immediate danger, call 911. 

If you or someone you know is a victim of sexual assault, you can learn more about your options from the BC Government publication Help Starts Here or through VictimLinkBC. VictimLinkBC can provide information about safe houses, outreach services, counselling, the criminal justice process and more.