About Sexual Violence (from KCSDV brochure)

Sexual violence includes sexual actions and words that coerce, manipulate, or are forced upon someone with the intent to intimidate, humiliate, or control. Most often these acts are perpetrated by someone the victim already knows such as a friend, relative, or intimate partner. Sexual violence can happen to anyone, regardless of gender, age, race, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or ability.

Sex offenders use many methods to intimidate the victim. They might use trickery, manipulation, coercion, bribery, blackmail, or threats. Offenders often take advantage of people they perceive as vulnerable or less powerful.