Sex is only legally permissible if it takes place between two consenting adults. In any other case, it could result in jail time and hefty fines.
States put heavy restrictions on sex offenders to mitigate the risks they pose to the community.
This post will cover sex offenses in more detail:
What are sex offenses?
The exact definition of a sex offense varies from one state to another. Broadly speaking, a sex offense includes forcing or threatening someone to engage in unwanted sexual activity. The term may also encompass internet sex crimes, including child pornography.
Sex offenses are considered crimes because they involve a lack of consent and are usually the product of violence. A sexual act is also considered an offense if the other party is not legally capable of consent; for instance, a child.
Different types of sex offenses
Common examples of sex offenses include sexual assault, statutory rape, marital rape, deviate conduct, child pornography, and indecent exposure. Under federal law, the following acts are also considered sexual offenses:
- Trafficking children for sexual purposes
- Transporting anyone from one place to another with the intention of engaging them in illegal sexual activity
- Traveling (interstate or abroad) with the intention of engaging in illegal sexual activity with a minor
- Sexually exploiting a minor
- Transmitting information about a minor to entice someone to engage in illegal sexual activity with the minor
However, these acts may be categorized differently in different states. What is considered rape in one state could be classified as aggravated sexual assault in another. Each state has its own sentencing provisions for each of these acts.
What are the state laws in Indiana?
According to the state law of Indiana, having sex with anyone who doesn’t consent or anyone who is unaware of the sexual advances is punishable by law. In Indiana, any sex crime that is committed by force is called sexual battery. Sexual battery is when a defendant forcibly touches a victim in ways that are considered sexual.
Sexual battery is a Level 6 or Level 4 felony in Indiana. If the act is aggravated, it may be classified as a Level 2 felony or Level 1 felony. The status of the offense depends on individual situations.
Level 1 Felonies can lead up to 20 to 40 years of incarceration with up to $10,000 in fine. This is considered the highest degree offense. The lowest degree is a Level 6 felony, which may lead to incarceration worth 6 months to 2.5 years.
No matter what the offense, you can always buy your way out if you’re innocent. Get in touch with DeLaughter Bail Bonds for reliable bail bond services in Indiana.
