By Constable 3011 Makelle Pinder

BASED on some of the circumstances that revolve around reported sexual offences, particularly as it pertains to minors and adult females, it is an obvious sign that the Bahamian public needs to be more knowledgeable about what these horrific incidents entail and how they can avoid becoming a victim.

Therefore listed below is the definition of rape in accordance with the Statute Laws of the Bahamas, along with the penalty of this particular offence, and some safety measures that people can take.

Statute Laws Definition

Rape is the act of any person not under 14 years of age having sexual intercourse with another person who is not his spouse —

(a) Without the consent of that other person;

(b) Without consent which has been extorted by threats or fear of bodily harm;

(c) With consent obtained by impersonating the spouse of that other person; or

(d) With consent obtained by false and fraudulent representations as to the nature and quality of the act.

For the purposes of this Act, “Sexual Intercourse” includes —

Sexual connection occasioned by any degree of penetration of the vagina of any person or anus of any person, or by the stimulation of the vulva of any person or anus of any person, by or with

(i) any part of the body of another person; or

(ii) any object used by another person, except where the penetration or stimulation is carried out for proper medical purposes; and sexual connection occasioned by the introduction of any part of the penis of any person into the mouth of another person, and any reference in this Act to the act of having sexual intercourse includes a reference to any stage or continuation of that act.

Penalty

Any person who —

(a) commits rape;

(b) attempts to commit rape; or

(c) assaults any person with intent to commit rape, is guilty of an offence and liable to imprisonment for life.

Because, rape is a serious criminal offence that violates the sanctity of a human’s body. This crime has lasting affects on its victims, their families and the wider community. But there is help and perhaps that help can begin with you.

Fear will cripple you and change your lifestyle. Knowledge on the other hand will empower you and enable you to control your space. The number of these alleged rapes and other sexual offences against our females have given rise for national concern. Here are some general tips that may assist you in preventing an attack on you or any other female.

Check to ensure that all doors and windows are locked before retiring for the evening. Always keep your doors locked especially on weekends when persons are moving about frequently.

When moving about your home in your night clothes or under clothes, draw all curtains, blinds and drapes closed so as to avoid others from seeing you.

Before going to bed, check your telephone and if you have a cellular, keep it near you.

Be aware of males who view you as a damsel in distress.

Be wary of strangers bearing gifts.

Always say “NO” – and mean it.

Persons wanting to use your phone should be told that either you will dial the number and pass on a message or that they cannot use your telephone.

Be careful of who you accept a drink from.

When having a cocktail, protect your drink at all cost.

Since most sexual attackers are known to their victims, consider the following:

Be careful when considering going out with an ex-boyfriend or husband.

Be careful of peace offerings and try not to be alone with the person.

Never assume that it’s over because the other person says so. In other words, be careful.

In the case where a child or children are a part of the relationship, then arrange visitation to be done at a place and time that will ensure your safety.

If you are cornered by an attacker, do not go willingly. Scream, grab, kick, bite, hold, squeeze and do as much as possible to bring attention to yourself.

Know when a date is no longer a date.

If attacked, do not wash or take a bath, you may destroy vital evidence.

Tell law enforcement officers about your ordeal. Never assume that you cannot become a victim of an attack.

Do all in your power that is lawful to protect yourself and those around you.

Do not be ruled by fear – take charge and have a better quality of life for you and your family.

• Should you need more information on Female Safety or if you have information pertaining to any crime, please do not hesitate to contact the police at ‘919’ or Crime Stoppers at 328-tips (New Providence), 1-300-8476 (Family Island) contact the Department of Social Services hotline number at 322-2763 or The Crisis Centre at 328-0922 or 322-4999.