Stealthing Law: Addressing the Hidden Form of Sexual Assault

Understanding Stealthing

Stealthing refers to the nonconsensual removal of a condom during otherwise consensual sexual intercourse. Victims are often unaware the condom has been removed until after the act. This deeply violates consent and puts victims at risk of STIs, pregnancy, and psychological trauma.

The Impact of Stealthing

Being subject to stealthing can make victims feel betrayed and violated. The perpetrator has ignored a clear condition of consent and assaulted the victim by deception. This erodes trust and can cause long term emotional damage. There is also the risk of STIs and unwanted pregnancy.

Is Stealthing a Crime?

While stealthing violates consent, in many places it does not constitute a specific crime. There have been efforts in some jurisdictions to criminalize stealthing. As of 2022, California and New York have classified stealthing as sexual battery.

Pursuing Justice

If you have been a victim of stealthing, first prioritize your health and wellbeing. Seek medical attention and counseling. You can report your assault to authorities, though legal outcomes vary. There are also civil actions you can pursue.

Preventing Stealthing

We must promote consent education to prevent assault. Communicate boundaries clearly. While it can be hard to anticipate violations like stealthing, being selective with partners is wise. There are also products to detect condom removal.

Supporting Survivors

If someone confides in you about stealthing, listen without judgment and offer love. Avoid victim-blaming mentality. Help them access resources and report if they wish, but respect their autonomy in processing this trauma. Recovery takes time.

FAQ

What is stealthing?

Stealthing is nonconsensual condom removal during sex. The perpetrator covertly takes the condom off or sabotages it to remove the barrier, violating consent and exposing the victim to STIs and pregnancy.

Is stealthing illegal?

While morally wrong, stealthing is not an explicitly codified crime in most places. Recently, some jurisdictions like California have classified it as sexual battery.

What should I do if I’ve experienced stealthing?

First prioritize your health and wellbeing. Get medical attention and speak to an understanding source of support. Know that it is not your fault. Report to authorities if you wish, and understand the legal outcome varies significantly.

How can stealthing be prevented?

Consent education can prevent assaults like stealthing. We need to better understand consent as an ongoing process, not a one-time agreement. Products that detect condom removal may also deter potential perpetrators.

How can I support stealthing survivors?

Listen compassionately if someone confides they’ve experienced stealthing and avoid victim-blaming attitudes. Respect their choices in processing and reporting while helping connect them to resources. Their healing journey is paramount.