**Approximately half of all sexual assaults involve alcohol consumption on the part of the victim, the perpetrator, or both (NIAAA)

Perpetrators can use alcohol or other drugs to compromise an individual’s ability to consent to sexual activity. Using these substances makes it easier for a perpetrator to commit sexual assault.

• Reduces an individual’s ability to physically or verbally resist
• Affects memory – victim/survivors may not remember the assault or only remember pieces. Memories can resurface after time.
• Alcohol and other drugs are tools a perpetrator uses to commit sexual assault. They do not cause someone to be assaulted. The perpetrator is responsible.
• The victim/survivor is not responsible, even if they willingly consumed alcohol or other drugs.