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 Missouri, sexual assault is legally referred to as 'sexual abuse' and encompasses any unwanted sexual intercourse, sodomy, or other sexual penetration without the consent of the other person, or when the victim is incapacitated or incapable of giving consent. The state's statutes classify sexual assault into various degrees, with first-degree sexual abuse being the most severe. Aggravated sexual assault, while not a distinct legal term in Missouri, would be covered under the state's laws that enhance penalties for sexual offenses involving aggravating factors. Such factors include the use of a deadly weapon, causing serious physical injury, or the presence of a victim who is a child or incapacitated. Missouri law also recognizes the use of drugs to incapacitate a victim as an aggravating factor. The specific age that defines a child victim can vary depending on the nature of the offense, but generally, it is under the age of 17. The penalties for sexual offenses in Missouri are severe and can include significant prison time, fines, and mandatory registration as a sex offender.