Harrisburg Sex Crimes Attorney
When sex acts occur among adults and children or occur without consent, they are considered crimes. Sex crimes are treated seriously in Pennsylvania. A person convicted of these crimes can face fines and prison time. A person can also be forced to register as a sex offender.
These crimes require solid defense from a criminal defense attorney. Contact The Law Offices of Cory A. Leshner, LLC, today for legal help.
Types of Sex Crimes in Pennsylvania
Some of the main sex crimes in the state include the following:
- Rape. Rape refers to non-consensual sexual intercourse obtained through force, threat of force, or without the victim’s consent. It includes situations where the victim is unconscious or mentally incapable of giving consent.
- Sexual assault. This crime involves non-consensual sexual intercourse but without the force or threat required in rape.
- Statutory sexual assault. This occurs when a person engages in sexual intercourse with a person under the age of 16, where there is a significant age difference (typically four years or more). Note that the consent of the minor does not prevent prosecution.
- Indecent assault. This refers to non-consensual sexual contact, such as touching the intimate parts of another person without consent. It may include cases where the victim is underage, unconscious, or incapable of consent due to mental disability.
- Aggravated indecent assault. This includes any sexual penetration of the genital or anal opening with any part of the body or object without consent. It also covers cases where the victim is unconscious, mentally disabled, or under age 16.
- Indecent exposure. This sex crime involves exposing one’s genitals in any public or private setting where others are likely to see and be offended or alarmed.
- Incest. This crime occurs when an individual engages in sexual activities with a close family member, such as a parent, grandparent, child, or sibling.
- Child pornography. This refers to the possession, distribution, or production of sexually explicit images or videos involving minors.
- Sexual exploitation of children. This crime includes employment, coercion, or use of minors in sexually explicit performances or content.
Penalties for Sex Crimes
Many sex crimes, particularly rape, are charged as first-degree felonies. The penalties include up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000. For rape of a child under the age of 13, a person can face up to 40 years in prison. When the rape of a child involves serious bodily injury, the maximum sentence is life imprisonment.
Some crimes are charged as second-degree felonies. They are punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.
Other crimes, such as indecent assault, are charged as first- or second-degree misdemeanors. A person can face a $10,000 fine and up to five years in prison.
Contact Us Today
There are many sex crimes that Pennsylvania recognizes. These crimes are punished harshly, so seek legal help right away.
A Harrisburg criminal defense lawyer from the Law Offices of Cory A. Leshner, LLC, will fight for you and get you the best possible results. Schedule a consultation today by filling out the online form or calling (717) 909-9999.