Are there differences between domestic violence, sexual assault, rape?

Yes there are differences between each of these. It is important to know the difference between sexual assault, domestic violence and rape, know what to do if you are a victim, and know that you should always report any abuses.

As defined by the U.S. Department of Justice, sexual assault is any kind of unwanted sexual activity, from touching to rape. If you have been sexually assaulted, no matter what the offender tells you – it is not your fault.

Sexual assault can happen through physical force or threats of force or if the attacker gave the victim drugs or alcohol as part of the assault. Sexual assault includes rape and sexual coercion. In the United States, one in three women has experienced some type of sexual violence.

Sexual assault can include:

•Any type of sexual contact with someone who cannot consent, such as someone who is underage, has an intellectual disability, or is passed out (such as from drugs or alcohol) or unable to respond
•Any type of sexual contact with someone who does not consent
•Rape
•Attempted rape
•Sexual coercion
•Sexual contact with a child
•Fondling or unwanted touching above or under clothes

Can sexual assault come in other forms?

Sexual assault can also be verbal, visual, or non-contact. It is anything that forces a person to join in unwanted sexual activities or attention. Other examples can include:
•Voyeurism, or peeping (when someone watches private sexual acts without consent)
•Exhibitionism (when someone exposes himself or herself in public)
•Sexual harassment or threats
•Forcing someone to pose for sexual pictures
•Sending someone unwanted texts or “sexts” (texting sexual photos or messages)

The Office on Women’s Health (OWH) was established in 1991 within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Their website is full of information to assist victims as they seek out help. It is important to know the difference between sexual assault and rape, know what to do if you are a victim, and know that you should always report any sexual assault. OWH recommends, if you are in danger or need medical care, call 911. Get away from the person who assaulted you and get to a safe place as fast as you can. You can call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE (4673) to connect with a sexual assault service provider in your area who can direct you to local resources.

As defined by the U.S. Department of Justice, sexual assault is any kind of unwanted sexual activity, from touching to rape. If you have been sexually assaulted, no matter what the offender tells you – it is not your fault.

Sexual assault can happen through physical force or threats of force or if the attacker gave the victim drugs or alcohol as part of the assault. Sexual assault includes rape and sexual coercion. In the United States, one in three women has experienced some type of sexual violence. You are not alone and never ever is it your fault!

What are some penalties?

It is very important to contact local authorities and be sure that a police report is written. Sexual Battery in Florida is a Felony. An offender, if found guilty will be charged with a felony. Punishment varies depending on age of offender, age of victim and degree of assault. Sentencing can be for several years to life. Restrictions on where a person can live and having to be put on the sexual offender list are other penalties.

If you are in danger or need medical care, call 911. Get away from the person who assaulted you and get to a safe place as fast as you can. You can call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE (4673) to connect with a sexual assault service provider in your area who can direct you to local resources. Remember to always report, always seek help, and do it now, don’t wait!

What types of charges does 33rd Street Bail Bonds get defendants out of jail for?

Our Orlando bail bonds office specializes in bonds for drug trafficking, alcohol related charges, traffic misdemeanors, domestic violence, theft, and many others. If you or a family member or friend are in need of bonding out of jail we encourage you to give us a call at 407-425-7200. Our bail bondsmen are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, year round. Need bail now? We can help you with the bail bond process. Our knowledgeable and experienced bail bondsmen will answer any questions you may have and provide an empathetic ear. We are the oldest bail bond company in Florida helping clients since 1971. We have helped clients all over Central Florida including those living in Orange, Seminole, Volusia and Osceola counties. Please give us a call at 407-425-7200 or 407-425-3303 to start the bail bond process. We are here to help bail from jail!