(Image Source: CARA Seattle)
BY MADISON MACK
ANCHOR ZACH TOOMBS
For the first time since 1927, the Department of Justice is expanding its definition of rape. Chicago’s WMAQ reports.
“Attorney General Erik Holder announced that any unwanted penetration no matter what the gender of attacker or victim will constitute rape. The new definition also includes cases where the victim cannot consent because of age, physical capacity, or the influence of drugs or alcohol. “
Fox News’ Chief Intelligence Correspondent says the new definition will lead to more comprehensive statistical reporting of the crime.
"Under the current 85 year old definition, rape is defined a s the carnal knowledge of a female forcibly and against her will. Victims rights groups have long argued this definition was limited. It meant the FBI’s annual crime report didn’t reflect the number of rapes involving men or boys and that the statistics were inaccurate. For example the alleged sex crime and the ongoing investigation of Penn State assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky would not be counted in the FBI’s national crime statistics.”
Ms. Magazine considers the new definition a victory for women. It quotes Margaret Moore, Director of the National Center for Women and Policing of the Feminist Majority Foundation
"It is a great day for women and law enforcement because the police can more accurately know what is going on as far as the crime of rape in their communities,"
The FBI reported a forcible rape every 6.2 seconds in 2010. Speaking with CNN the executive director for the National Center for Victims says with the new definition, the statistics will be even more appalling.
“The problem is much greater than what you have been previously seeing … You don’t really know what the problem is. Therefore, you can't really create solutions to fit."
In a separate article, CNN highlights a commenter who says it’s about time the definition was updated.
“People need to understand that men can be victims too! Look at the kids raped by their teachers. Or young boys sexually abused by their mothers. The blame is usually placed on the male and that is not always the case. This law should have been in place eons ago!"
