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What is Rape?


According to the Washington State Rape Law(RCW Chapter 9A.44), rape is defined as: "sexual intercourse between persons without consent. The penetration can be in any form: penetration of the vagina, anus, or mouth by an object or a sex organ. Either sex can be the victim or perpetrator of penetration."

In other words, the following are considered rape, when:
-Someone mentally coerces or physically forces you to have sex.
-There is penetration of the vagina, anus or mouth made by anything including a penis, finger(s), a bottle, or other object.

Washington State Rape Law (RCW Chapter 9A.44) in detail:

Degrees Of Rape:

1st Degree Rape: Forcible compulsion where the perpetrator or an accessory uses or threatens to use a deadly weapon, or kidnaps the victim, or inflicts serious physical injury, or feloniously enters into the building or vehicle where the victim is situated. Felony.

2nd Degree Rape: When first degree circumstances are not met. Forcible compulsion, or when the victim is incapable of consent by reasons of being physically helpless or mentally incapacitated. Felony.

3rd Degree Rape: The victim did not consent to sexual intercourse with the perpetrator; and such lack of consent was clearly expressed by the victim's words or conduct, or where there is a threat of substantial harm to property rights of the victim. Felony.

1st Degree Incest: The victim is a known relative: ancestor, descendent, brother, sister; or stepchild, adopted child under 18. Felony.

1st Degree Rape of a Child: The victim is less than 12 years old and the offender is at least 24 months older than the victim. Felony.

2nd Degree Rape of a Child: The victim is 12 - 14 years old and the offender is at least 36 months older than the victim. Felony.

3rd Degree Rape of a Child: The victim is 14 - 16 years old and the offender is at least 48 months older than the victim. Felony.

1st Degree Sexual Misconduct with a Minor: The victim is 16 - 18 and the offender is at least 60 months older than victim. Felony.