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 Wisconsin, sexual assault is defined under the Wisconsin Statutes Section 940.225. The law categorizes sexual assault into different degrees, with first-degree sexual assault involving sexual contact or sexual intercourse with another person without the consent of that person and with use of force or threat of force. Aggravated sexual assault, while not a distinct category in Wisconsin law, would typically fall under first-degree sexual assault due to the presence of aggravating factors such as the use of a deadly weapon, causing great bodily harm, or the victim being under a certain age, specifically under the age of 13. The penalties for first-degree sexual assault are severe and can include a lengthy prison sentence. Additionally, if a rape drug is used to facilitate the assault, this can lead to additional charges and penalties under Wisconsin's drug laws. It is important for individuals facing such charges to seek the counsel of an attorney who is knowledgeable in Wisconsin's criminal law to navigate the complexities of the case.