A mere allegation of sexual abuse of a child in Tulsa, Oklahoma can have far reaching consequences, even if you are not convicted of the crime.
Furthermore, child sex abuse charges can vary, as can the penalties according to the circumstances of the crime.
Defining Sexual Abuse of a Child
Generally, “child sexual abuse” means the willful or malicious sexual abuse of a child. This definition includes but is not limited to rape, incest, and lewd or indecent acts or proposals, of a child under eighteen (18) years of age by another.
Types of Sexual Abuse of a Child Charges
In Oklahoma, it is illegal for any parent or other person who shall willfully or maliciously engage in child sexual abuse if the child is between the ages of 12 and 17. Doing so can lead to a sentence ranging from one year in county jail to life in prison. Fines can range from $500 to $5,000.
If the child is 12 or younger, any parent or other person who shall willfully or maliciously engage in sexual abuse will face a felony charge; a conviction can lead to between 25 years and life imprisonment and a fine between $500 and $5,000.
The state of Oklahoma also punishes the enablement of child sex abuse. Enabling child sex abuse is just as serious as committing the actual act.
Enabling child sexual abuse means the causing, procuring or permitting of a willful or malicious act of the sexual abuse of a child. This definition includes but is not limited to rape, incest, and lewd or indecent acts or proposals, of a child under the age of eighteen (18) by another.
Penalties are the same for enablers as those who actually engage in the abuse themselves.
“Permit” means to authorize or allow for the care of a child by an individual when the person authorizing or allowing such care knows or reasonably should know that the child will be placed at risk of sexual abuse. (Ok. Stat. Tit. 21 Sec. 843.5)
Free Consultation: Tulsa Felony Defense Lawyer
A conviction of any type of child abuse can destroy your life and that of your family’s.
If you or someone you know is faced with this charge, consult with an experienced Oklahoma defense attorney at the Tulsa Criminal Defense Law Firm today at (918) 256-3400, or call toll-free at 1-(888) 447-7262.
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