Justice Dept. Analyzes Rape Victims

Sexual Assaults Declining - Highest Rates Among Rural Poor

From 1995 to 2010, the estimated annual rate of female rape or sexual assault victimizations declined 58%, from 5.0 victimizations per 1,000 females age 12 or older to 2.1 per 1,000. 

According to a new report from the Justice Department, females who were age 34 or younger, who lived in lower income households, and who lived in rural areas experienced some of the highest rates of sexual violence. 

The study said the offender was armed with a gun, knife, or other weapon in 11% of rape or sexual assault victimizations. From 2005 to 2010, 78% of sexual violence involved an offender who was a family member, intimate partner, friend, or acquaintance.