The White House unveiled a star studded PSA video addressing the crime of sexual assault. Stars such as Daniel Craig, Benicio del Toro, Seth Meyers, Steve Carell, and Dule Hill have joined President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden to deliver a powerful message against the sexual assault that occurs routinely on college campuses and across the United States.
The video was released in conjunction with a White House report on college sexual assault and aims to reduce the violence young women endure. According to the video, “If she doesn’t consent or can’t consent, it’s rape. It’s assault.” You can view the PSA video for yourself here.
According to the White House website, young women still face an extremely high risk of date violence and sexual assault. In fact, in 2013 alone 1 in 10 teenagers reported being physically assaulted by their boyfriend or girlfriend. In addition 1-in-5 college girls has been sexually assaulted while in college and 1-in-9 teen girls will be forced into having sex.
Sexual Assault: What Can You Do?
Vice President Joe Biden is especially focused on helping young women between 16-24 avoid sexual abuse and assault. The White House and celebrities are urging everyone to speak up about sexual assault. If you see it occurring, it is not okay. Don’t be afraid to stand up and intervene if you believe that someone is being sexually assaulted. If you hear rumors of sexual assault, report them.
For teenagers and young couples that are in relationships, it is important to treat each other with respect and expect others to do the same. Be aware of language that is particularly degrading towards women and that may encourage sexual abuse behaviors.
Sexual Assault: When You are the Victim
If you are a victim of sexual assault, it is important to understand that a crime has been committed and it is not your fault. Be sure to tell someone you trust about the situation so that they can offer support, and report the crime to the authorities immediately. It is also important to seek medical help as quickly as possible.
Through medical care and psychological therapy, you can get through this horrific ordeal and come out on the other side. Remember that you are not alone. It is important to have friends, support groups, counselors, and family who can help you deal with what has happened to you and learn to heal.
Sexual Assault: When You are the Accused
Sexual assault is a very serious criminal offense and one that is prosecuted aggressively by local and state authorities. If you have been accused of sexual assault, it is imperative that you contact an experienced Denver criminal defense attorney immediately. Your future—and your freedom are at stake.
With renewed federal commitment towards stamping out sexual assault, those who are accused need a zealous legal advocate in their corner. After all, everyone is innocent until proven guilty—and innocent men and women are charged with sexual assault each and every year—and convicted.
If you are convicted of sexual assault in Colorado, you will face serious penalties and consequences, including up to 24 years in Colorado State Prison, depending on the circumstances surrounding your crime. In addition, convicted sex assault offenders must register as sex offenders for the remainder of their lives. This alone can significantly jeopardize your future opportunities, long after you have served your sentence.
Denver Sexual Assault Defense Lawyers
If you have been arrested and charged with sexual assault in Denver, contact the Denver criminal defense lawyers at Steven Louth Law Offices today for a free consultation and review of your case. Call us at (303)422-2297.