Sexual Assault in Rhode Island

Sexual Assault in Rhode Island

Sexual Assault is a broad term used to describe a series of sex-related crimes which vary in severity as well as consequences. It is a crime that can happen anywhere, to anyone, and everyone should know what to do in the event they have been sexually assaulted. Sex crimes are among the most serious offenses, and often carry extremely severe sentences for both the victim and the offender. If you or anyone you know has recently been the victim of a sexual assault it is very important that they reach a safe area where medical treatment can be given and authorities can be alerted.

As with most violent crimes, there are degrees of sexual assault each with a corresponding penalty.

Degrees of sexual assault

The crime and penalty for sexual assault is defined by each individual state for which the crime occurs. Like most states, Rhode Island has broken it down into the following categories.

First degree sexual assault:

Any forced or coerced, penetration of the vagina, anus, or mouth by any part of the body or foreign object. If convicted, you may face anywhere from 10 years, to life in prison.

Second degree sexual assault:

Any kind of sexual contact that involves force or coercion, or is perpetrated on any victim that is deemed physically or mentally helpless, but does not involve penetration. If convicted, you may face anywhere from 3 to 15 years imprisonment.

Third degree sexual assault (Statutory Rape):

Any kind of sexual contact with a victim between the ages of 14 and 16, even without coercion or force, and involves penetration. If convicted you may face up to 5 years in prison.

First degree child molestation:

Any kind of sexual penetration involving a victim under the age of 14. If convicted you may face a minimum of 25 years, or a maximum of life in prison.

Second degree child molestation:

Any type of sexual contact with a victim under age of 14 but does not involve penetration. If convicted you may face a minimum of 6 years, and a maximum of 30 years in prison.

Failing to report sexual abuse:

Although it is not commonly known, it is a crime to withhold information regarding sexual abuse. If you or anyone you know is being, or has been sexually abused, you must report the crime to the authorities immediately. Failure to do so may result in a $500 fine and up to one year imprisonment.

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If you have questions about this posting or are interested in Criminal Defense, Divorce, or Immigration Law in RI contact Rhode Island Criminal Defense Lawyer John E. MacDonald at 401-421-1440.

To learn more about The Law Office of John MacDonald, please visit his website at AggressiveLegalServices.com.