If you force a person to engage in sexual activities much against his/her wishes, then you are performing a sexual abuse. Even activities like indecent exposure, sexual harassment, compelling a person to participate or watch pornography or sexual exploitation of children are also treated as sexual abuse. It is a serious criminal offense and the penalties differ with the laws and justice system prevailing in the state where the crime occurred.
Imprisonment
As sexual abuse is an act of felony, serious penalties are imposed even to the first time offenders. Imprisonment is something which cannot be escaped in such criminal charges. The duration of the imprisonment depends on the seriousness of the crime and your past conviction record. Imprisonment can range anywhere from a minimum of 1 year to a maximum of 20 years depending on the nature of the crime. For example, you will be sentenced with 14 years of jail term if you attempt a rape and 7 years of imprisonment for your act of indecency to a person less than 10 years. You may be sentenced to life if you have done an aggravated sexual assault in company of others.
Rehabilitation Program
Either during your imprisonment or after the jail term, you have to undergo a sexual misconduct rehabilitation program. This aims at eliminating the habit of sexual abuse from you in future. Based on your behavioral model, you will be sent for a 4-month Sex Offender Education Program or 18-month Sex Offender Treatment Program to reduce the rate of re-offense.
Register with Sex Offender Registries
There are sexual offenders’ registries at state and federal levels. Your name, address and other criminal convictions will be recorded in these registries when you are found guilty of sexual abuse. This registration is mandatory and it will be there throughout your life term. To top it all, online sexual offenders’ website allows visitors to access your photograph also.
Civil Penalties
Apart from the criminal penalties imposed, you may be sued in the civil court by the victim for sexual assault, invasion of privacy, emotional distress or other reasons. You may be imposed with monetary penalties for the emotional distress and physical injuries caused during the abuse. You may also have to pay for medical expenses if the victim has undergone or still undergoing any medical treatment.
Get Legal Advice
You require legal assistance from a criminal lawyer when you are charged with the sexual abuse charge. Your attorney can help you in providing assistance to reduce your penalties or jail term based on your crime.