I think we’re operating from a very different set of assumptions, Rex.

Rape, by definition, is forcible, i.e., against the will of the victim. The legislators who were advocating for “forcible rape” in 2010 though, wanted there to by actual physical force. That’s not in line with American law, which has defined forcible as force or threat of force or intimidation. Convictions for armed robbery have been upheld even when defendants used fake guns, or no guns at all. I can force you to go along with me if I actually stick a knife in your head, or if I just say I’ll stick a knife in your head.

“What to do if you’re falsely accused of a crime” is not about how the media refers to rape victims or witnesses, which is (see the title) the subject of my article.

I’m 100% okay with using the term “alleged victim” until a guilty plea is entered because that’s the term that’s used in all other criminal prosecutions.

I’m not advocating for special rules or language for rape prosecutions. Quite the opposite.