Sexual abuse can happen at any age, from childhood to senior years. In Florida, sexual abuse is a felony offense that mandates a prison sentence. If you are under suspicion of any type of sexual abuse crime, it is critical that you obtain the services of an experienced sex crimes attorney immediately.
Sexual abuse laws are detailed in the 2011 Florida Statutes in several chapters. Under TITLE XLVI CRIMES, Chapter 827 has information about abuse of children, including acts that subject underage children to acts of deviate sexual intercourse, sexual battery (rape), sexual bestiality, sexual conduct and sexual performance. Chapter 793 details actions that constitute sexual battery as a felony crime under Florida law. TITLE V Chapter 39 Proceedings relate to abuse of children, including acts perpetrated by other juveniles.
Florida Sexual Abuse Offenses
Offenders commit sexual abuse acts against persons of all ages. Children, disabled or handicapped persons, mentally incompetent persons, and the elderly are vulnerable targets. The basic premise is that there must be intrusion by the sexual organs or any object of one person into sexual parts of another, without consent. There is a long list of acts that constitute sexual abuse. The penalty for this sex crime is elevated if certain conditions exist:
- Use of force or violence
- Knowledge that the victim is underage
- Being in a caretaker position of authority over the victim
- Commission of other sex crimes
- Physical and/or mental harm to the victim
- Threats to the victim or other persons
- Multiple offenders participate
- Lewd offenses
Various offenses also are illegal under federal law and charges may be simultaneously filed in federal court.
Sexual Abuse Means a Felony Charge
Sexual abuse in Florida is a felony crime with mandatory prison sentencing. Depending on the number of charges against the suspect, a sentence of life without parole may result. At best, the convicted sex offender will spend 5 years or more in prison. Offenders must register forever as a sex offender or sexual predator on the National Sex Offender Registry.
State and federal laws that state what constitutes sexual abuse of children, adults or elders are very complex. That is exactly why it is necessary for a suspect or someone charged with this sex crime to immediately obtain experienced legal representation and commence their defense. Mounting a strong defense requires in-depth knowledge of Florida and federal sex crime laws. Musca Law has a team of sex crime attorneys ready defend you and to obtain the best possible outcome for your case.
Call now for a free evaluation of your case. Musca Law has offices conveniently located in Jacksonville, Orlando, Miami and Tampa, throughout the state, and they work with attorneys nationwide. Call Musca Law at (800) 687-2252 or use the website form to contact a sex crime attorney.
