Sexual assault on campus is a growing problem across the US. Under the Connecticut Penal Code, sexual assault has a wide definition and includes any unwanted sexual activity. It may be charged as a first, second, third, or fourth degree crime, with each level carrying serious penalties. 

Below, we consider a variety of sexual assault on college campuses statistics, and what you should do if you're charged with sexual assault in Connecticut.  

What Percentage of College Students Are Sexually Assaulted?

According to RAINN, 13% of all graduate and undergraduate students will be sexually assaulted during their studies. 

• 20% of female students between 18 and 24 who have experienced sexual assault didn't report the incident. 
• Male students aged between 18 and 24 are 78% more likely than non-student males of the same age to be sexually assaulted.
• Out of students who identify as TGQN (transgender, genderqueer, nonbinary, or gender nonconforming), 23.1% have been sexually assaulted.  

Why Is Sexual Assault so Common on College Campuses?

There are a few reasons. 

• Peer pressure: Students may feel pressured into situations like drinking, taking drugs, or having sexual contact.
• Intoxication: If students are intoxicated, they're less aware of their surroundings which makes them vulnerable to unwanted sexual activity.   
• Reporting challenges: A reluctance to report incidents could create a culture where sexual assault goes unchallenged.   

Worryingly, advocacy groups estimate that at least 40% of sexual assaults occur off-campus, including in off-campus housing and neighborhoods beyond campus boundaries. 

What Is the Main Contributing Factor to Sexual Assault on College Campuses?

Alcohol consumption plays a major role in these incidents. Research by American Addiction Centers shows the following:

• Alcohol is involved in around 50% of campus sexual assaults, according to college sexual assault statistics.
• The perpetrator is intoxicated in roughly a third of sexual assault cases. 

Students should always drink responsibly – alcohol consumption can impair your judgment. If you're accused of sexual assault after drinking heavily, consult an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately for advice.      

What Is the Most Common Method of Sexual Assault on College Campuses?

A range of sexual assault on college campus articles show that unwanted sexual contact is the most common method. Unwanted sexual contact can include, for example, kissing someone who makes it clear they don't consent, or touching someone intimately who can't consent due to e.g. intoxication. 

It's vital that students understand the nature of consent and what may constitute unwanted sexual contact.

Where Can I Turn for Help With a Sexual Assault Charge?

Undoubtedly, these sexual assault on college campuses statistics are alarming. However, if you're facing sexual assault charges, we can evaluate your case, represent your best interests, and help you build the strongest possible defense. 

Are you in need of a sexual assault defense attorney in Connecticut? See how we can help today – contact Field Law, LLC to arrange a consultation.