About Sexual Conduct with Minor Charges, Laws & Convictions
Sexual conduct with a minor is sometimes referred to as statutory rape in many states and districts. This is where one of the people is below the legal age to consent legally to the sexual activity. Other jurisdictions may refer to this conduct as sexual assault, child rape, minor corruption etc.
The key factor regarding the determination of whether an act constitutes sexual conduct with a minor is the age of the minor involved. In many states, the the age of consent is taken to mean the mental age of the minor at the time of the sexual act. In such states, a victim could actually be any age, if their age mentally means that they cannot agree to a sexual activity. Also, many states will state that there is a minimum age difference that must be met for there to be a sexual offense. For example, an 18 year-old having sexual intercourse with a 16 year-old would not usually be considered sexual misconduct.
About Sexual Conduct with Minor Laws in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has different laws governing sexual conduct with minors depending upon the age of the minor. For example, if the minor is under 14, you would be guilty of indecent assault and battery on a child under 14. This would be punishable by a prison sentence of up to 10 years.
If you had sexual intercourse or “unnatural sexual intercourse” with a child under the age of 16, you could be sent to a state prison for life.
If you had sexual intercourse with a minor under 18, you can be sent to a state prison for up to three years and fined up to $1,000.
Statutory rape in Massachusetts is defined as intercourse or unnatural intercourse with a minor under 16. The prosecution must only show that you had intercourse or unnatural intercourse with the minor, and that the victim was less than 16. Whether you believed the minor to be older than 16 is not a defense for statutory rape in this state.
More About Sexual Misconduct Charges in Massachusetts
If you are accused of this sort of sex crime in this state, it is very serious. The penalties are harsh, because politicians want to be seen as tough on these sorts of crimes. Also, if convicted, your name will be on the Massachusetts Sex Offender Registry Board for life. Any person who goes to that website can see a photo of you and your profile, as well as where you live. Even after you serve your sentence, you will be identified as a sex offender.
You should keep in mind that some sexual conduct with minor crimes can give you a life sentence. This is the case even if the minor consented to the sexual activity. This is why you need an outstanding Massachusetts criminal defense attorney if you have been charged with sexual conduct with a minor in Massachusetts.
Statistics on Rape in Massachusetts
Records are not kept on sexual conduct with a minor in the state of Massachusetts. However, forcible rape overall in this state has stayed about the same in the decade 2000-10. In 2000, there were 26.7 cases per 100k citizens, and in 2010, there also were 26.7 cases per 100k citizens.
Also, Massachusetts ranked as follows in the 50 US states in forcible rape:
- 2008: 38th
- 2007: 39th
- 2006: 38th
- 2005: 37th
Conclusion
If you have been accused of sexual misconduct with a minor, or any other serious crime, contact the Law Offices of Geoffrey G. Nathan. He has the experience and legal skills as a criminal defense attorney needed to handle serious criminal matters. To arrange an office consultation, contact us now.
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