In recent years sex crimes have risen causing those in society to take certain precautions. Women are carrying mace sprays and parents check the local registries for sex offenders in their area. Law enforcement workers are sifting through the internet to track down child pornography websites. This is all due to the rise in sexual offenses that are taken very seriously by our government. There are a variety of sexual offenses that result is severe consequences for the individuals that violate the law.
The general population will tell you the first thing that comes to mind when they think of a sexual crime is rape or sexual assault. Although that is a form of sexual assault, it is not the only one. Other sexual crimes include indecent exposure, child pornography, incest, kidnapping or burglary with sexual intent, and prostitution. While every sexual offense will have a punishment, the age of the victim and the duration of the offense will probably increase the harshness of the punishment.
Rape And Sexual Assault
Contrary to popular belief rape and sexual assault are not the same. They are the most common forms of sexual assault and being able to know the difference will help you know if you have suffered from wither one. Rape is considered first degree sexual assault which is sexual intercourse forced by physical threats, drugs, alcohol, or other means of subduing someone.
“Date rape” is defined as sex between two people who have dated or had a relationship in the past and it is non-consensual. Statutory rape is sexual intercourse where one individual is above 18 years of age and the other is below the legal age. Sexual assault is lower on the totem pole than rape, but still as offensive. Sexual assault is instances such as fondling, groping, attempted rape and other forms of unwanted sexual contact.
Registering As A Sex Offender
The law requires that any individual who has committed and been charged with a sexual offense, whether listed above or not, to register as a sexual offender. The United States has a law that requires the FBI to maintain a database that collects names of individuals who have been released from prison after committing any form of sex crime.
Each of the 50 states has varying laws regarding the residency limitations of sexual offenders. Since 2006 at least 21 states have passed a law that forbids sexual offenders from living in certain areas in a town. More frequently than not, sexual offenders are required to register and are not permitted to reside near an elementary school, daycare, or any other areas that poses a risk for another offense. There are also websites available for those who want to search for any registered sex offenders in their neighborhood.
Additional Legal Guidance: Criminal Law Attorney Michael Lowe. Serving clients in Dallas, Texas.