[soundwave106]

One of the charges as I understand it is Mr. Assange had sex with one of the accusers while she was asleep. That definitely seems to qualify as rape in Sweden penal code (https://lagen.nu/1962:700#K6P1S1 -- note I'm relying on Google Translate so corrections welcome).

Sweden is not the only country that considers sex with someone sleeping or otherwise unconscious as rape; a quick look at UK law for instance seems to bring this up in section 75 (http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2003/42). Even in Mr. Assange's native Australia, failure to withdraw from sexual intercourse after consent is withdrawn appears in itself to be considered "rape" in all districts but Queensland. (https://www.alrc.gov.au/publications/25.%20Sexual%20Offences...)

There are varying degrees of rape in Sweden, as I understand it Mr. Assange is being accused of the most minor degree of rape due to the circumstances. Still, it seems like what he is accused of is typically labeled "rape" in many places.

[grandalf]

Do you know the current status of the cases? I believe one or both was dropped at the behest of the accuser(s) or prosecutor.

[soundwave106]

From what I see of the current status, the investigation regarding a rape charge is still pending; the other charges hit their statute of limitations last year. Since this is a recent article, I assume someone is still someone is still interested in pursuing the case currently.

http://www.news.com.au/world/europe/julian-assange-rape-case...