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 Rhode Island, sexual assault is defined under various degrees of sexual assault, including first-degree sexual assault which involves forced sexual intercourse, sodomy, or other sexual penetration without consent. Aggravated sexual assault in Rhode Island is characterized by circumstances that increase the severity of the offense, such as the use of a deadly weapon, the administration of a drug or other substance to incapacitate the victim, or when the victim is a child below a certain age. Rhode Island General Laws § 11-37 outlines the specific definitions and penalties for sexual assault crimes. The law is stringent, and penalties for aggravated sexual assault can include lengthy prison sentences, with the possibility of life imprisonment for certain offenses, especially those involving minors or the use of force and weapons. It is important for individuals facing such charges to seek the counsel of an experienced attorney who can navigate the complexities of Rhode Island's sexual assault statutes.