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Sexual Abuse

Courtroom ImageSexual abuse is a crime that involves the forcing of sexual activities upon a person against his or her will. Sexual abuse can take many forms and is not limited to physical contact. Other forms of sexual abuse crimes are indecent exposure, sexual harassment, the commercial sexual exploitation of children, or forcing an individual to participate or view pornography.

Adult sexual abuse is typically perpetrated by men between the ages of 20 and 50. About half of all adult rapes are committed by strangers, while the other half involve friends or acquaintances of the victim. Drugs and alcohol often play a part in acts of sexual abuse.

Child Victims of Sexual Abuse

Unfortunately, children often fall victim to crimes of sexual abuse. The majority of child sexual abuse cases involve female victims, though experts believe that five to ten percent of males will fall victim to a sexual crime during youth.

In many cases, the perpetrators of sexual abuse towards children are acquaintances or relatives of the victim. While sexual abuse can be committed by either sex, the majority of sexual abuse crimes are performed by men. These perpetrators often fail to understand that their behavior is wrong and are unlikely to stop without legal intervention.

Sexual Abuse & the Law

The punishment given to sex offenders will vary depending on the state in which the crime was committed and the severity of the crime. Sexual abuse is a criminal offense, and typically the perpetrator will be incarcerated. In many cases the court will force the abuser to participate in a rehabilitation program before being released on parole.

In addition, a sexual abuser may be required to register as a sex offender with the state. This will make public the offender’s name and address along with the details of their prior convictions.

Civil Penalties

Victims of sexual abuse may also choose to sue the offender in a civil court of law. Damages may be recovered for physical or emotional injuries and may include the cost of past or future therapy. Legal theories that a victim of sexual abuse may sue under are:

  • sexual abuse
  • assault and battery
  • invasion of privacy
  • unlawful restraint
  • intentional and negligent infliction of emotional distress

Personal injury statutes of limitation by State



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