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 generally includes aggravating circumstances that increase the severity of the sexual assault—such as when the assailant or perpetrator uses, displays, or threatens the victim with a deadly weapon (a gun or knife); when the assailant uses a rape drug to incapacitate the victim; or when the victim is a child under a certain age, as defined by the statute.

In Idaho, sexual assault is defined under the statutes as rape, which includes forced sexual intercourse, sodomy, or any penetration against the person's will and without their consent. The state's laws are detailed in Idaho Code § 18-6101, which outlines that rape can occur under various circumstances, such as when the victim is coerced by force or threats, when the victim is incapable of giving consent due to mental disability or intoxication, or when the victim is under the age of 16 and the perpetrator is three or more years older. Aggravated sexual assault in Idaho is not a separate offense but is considered under the umbrella of rape and can lead to more severe penalties when aggravating factors are present. Such factors may include the use of a deadly weapon, the administration of a rape drug, or the victim being a child under a certain age. The penalties for rape in Idaho are severe and can include life imprisonment, especially in cases involving aggravating circumstances.