What are the Consequences if Convicted for Sexual Assault of a Minor in Missouri?
Sexual AssaultSexual assault of a minor charges come with life-altering consequences. Missouri law punishes these crimes severely, particularly when the victim is under the age of consent. If you’re convicted, what penalties can you expect?
Missouri Law and Age of Consent
In Missouri, the age of consent is 17. People who engage in sexual conduct with someone younger than 17 could face criminal charges, depending on the circumstances and the age difference involved.
Missouri law includes several related crimes: statutory rape, statutory sodomy, child molestation, and sexual misconduct involving a child. Each charge comes with its own set of criteria and penalties. These can increase significantly depending on the minor’s age, the type of conduct involved, and whether force or coercion was involved.
Statutory Rape and Statutory Sodomy
Statutory rape in the first degree involves sexual intercourse with someone under age 14. This offense is a felony and is punishable by a minimum of five years in prison and up to life imprisonment. If the victim was under 12, the minimum sentence is 10 years.
Statutory rape in the second degree happens when someone 21 or older engages in sexual intercourse with someone under 17. This offense is a Class D felony and can lead to up to seven years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.
Statutory sodomy follows a similar structure. First-degree statutory sodomy involves deviate sexual intercourse with a child under 14. Second-degree statutory sodomy involves someone 21 or older engaging in deviate sexual intercourse with someone under 17 and is a Class D felony.
Child Molestation
Child molestation in the first degree involves aggravated sexual offenses committed against a child under 14. This is a Class B felony, unless the child is under 12 or if the defendant has prior sex offense convictions. In that case, it’s a Class A felony, and the defendant is not eligible for parole, probation, or conditional release.
Second-degree child molestation applies when someone subjects a child under 17 to sexual contact and they’re four or more years older than the child. This charge also applies when someone subjects a child under 12 to the same conduct. This is a Class B felony.
Sex Offender Registration Requirements
Anyone convicted of sexual assault involving a minor must register as a sex offender under Missouri’s Sex Offender Registration Act. This requirement includes regular reporting to law enforcement, restrictions on where you can live and work, and public listing on the sex offender registry.
Failing to comply with registration rules is a separate criminal offense and can result in additional prison time. Many offenses require lifelong registration.
Collateral Consequences of a Conviction
The legal penalties are only part of the picture. A conviction for sexual assault of a minor has lifelong consequences, including:
- Inability to live near schools, daycares, or parks
- Permanent damage to your reputation
- Potential loss of parental rights
- Restrictions on internet access or social media use
- Difficulty finding housing or employment
- Ineligibility for certain professional licenses or certifications
Because the consequences are so severe, it’s important to work with an experienced sex crimes defense attorney as early as possible.
Potential Defenses Against Sexual Assault of a Minor Charges
If you’ve been charged with sexual assault of a minor, you need a strong defense. These cases often depend on forensic evidence, witness credibility, and how evidence was obtained.
Certain defenses may be available, such as mistaken identity, lack of intent, or (in rare cases) consensual sexual conduct between peers. However, many defenses are limited by the statutes. For example, consent is not a valid defense when the victim is under 14.
Discuss Your Case with a Missouri Sex Crimes Defense Attorney
If you’re facing charges or are under investigation, you need legal representation as soon as possible. Richard H. Sindel, Inc. can guide you through your defense and fight to protect your future. Contact us to discuss your case.