Most people who commit this crime have been drinking, usually heavily. And, although it's never okay to blame the victim , often the victim has been drinking, too. This pamphlet tells you about the risks you face related to acquaintance rape. It also suggests strategies you can take by yourself or with other students to prevent acquaintance rape and stay in control. Rape occurs when someone forces another person to have sexual intercourse of any kind- vaginal, oral, or anal.
Rape can occur between opposite or same-sex individuals.
When someone forces another person to have sexual intercourse, he or she is subject to the same criminal penalties whether the victim is an acquaintance or a total stranger-and whether or not either party is intoxicated. In the case of acquaintance rape, the rapist and victim know each other. They may live in the same residence hall or attend the same class. They may be dating or romantically involved. Such cases are sometimes called date rape.