Child molestation is any activity where an adult or older adolescent uses a child for sexual stimulation. There are many different situations and instances that can fall under this title. The molestation of a child is considered a very serious crime and is often punished with jail time, fines, and lengthy probation. Often those convicted of molesting a child are required to register as a sex offender, making housing and job searches challenging.
Child molestation is not the same as sexual assault. It mostly applies to children under the age of 14 but can be broadened to apply to all minors. Also, it usually does not take consent into consideration. Because children under the age of 14 are not legally able to give consent to participate in sexual activities their consent usually cannot be held up in court. This policy is also influenced by the fact that in many child molestation cases the adult was in a position of power in the child’s life, which could influence the child’s consent.
What Qualifies as Child Molestation
It has been estimated that one in ten boys and one in five girls will experience some form of sexual molestation by the time they reach the age of 14. Most victims of sexual abuse are abused by someone they know, be it a family member or family acquaintance. There are a number of situations that can be classified as the molestation of a child. These include:
Groping, touching, or lewdly interacting with a minor
Having any form of sexual contact with a child under the age of 14
Touching a child in a manner that could be classified as lascivious or lewd
Using a position of influence or power to coerce a child into performing sexual acts
Using inappropriate or sexually suggestive language towards or around a minor
Any of the above situations and activities can qualify as child molestation. They can range in severity, but all are punishable by the law.
For More Information
Sex crimes against a child are considered some of the most serious crimes that can be committed. Those who are convicted of molesting a child face years in prison, probation, and long term animosity from peers and neighbors. That is why it is so important to know your rights if you are facing this serious charge.
