Sexual assault is generally forced sexual intercourse, sodomy, or other sexual penetration of another person—against the person’s will and without the person’s consent. And although precise definitions and punishments vary from state to state, the criminal offense of aggravated sexual assault of a child includes the aggravating circumstance of the victim being a child under a certain age, as defined by the statute—which increases the severity of the crime.

In Delaware, sexual assault is defined under the Delaware Code Title 11, Criminal Code, which includes various degrees of rape and unlawful sexual contact. Rape in the first degree, for example, involves sexual intercourse with another person without their consent and includes circumstances such as when the victim is less than 12 years old or the act is committed by force or threat of force. Aggravated sexual assault of a child is a more severe offense and is typically characterized by the victim being below a certain age, which in Delaware is under 16 years old for certain offenses. The presence of a child victim is an aggravating factor that can elevate the severity of the crime and the potential punishment. Penalties for sexual assault in Delaware are severe and can include lengthy prison sentences, fines, and mandatory registration as a sex offender. An attorney specializing in criminal law can provide more detailed information about the specific charges and penalties associated with sexual assault in Delaware.