Sexual abuse of a child is generally defined as physical contact or other interaction between a child (under age 17, for example) and an adult when the child is being used for the sexual stimulation or pleasure of the perpetrator or another person. In addition to physical contact, sexual abuse of a child may include (1) the exposure of the genitals of an adult in the presence of a child, (2) the exposure of the genitals of a child, (3) using a child in making pornography, or (4) making a child view sexual acts or pornography.

And in some states multiple instances of sexual contact between an adult and a child may constitute the enhanced criminal offense of continual sexual abuse of a child—which is sometimes a first-degree felony offense.

In South Dakota, sexual abuse of a child is addressed under various statutes that criminalize sexual contact with a minor, the creation or distribution of child pornography, and other related offenses. South Dakota Codified Laws (SDCL) define sexual contact with a minor under the age of 16 as a felony, and the severity of the charge can range from fourth-degree to first-degree, depending on the circumstances and the age of the victim (SDCL 22-22-1). The law also prohibits the exposure of genitals to a minor (SDCL 22-24A-3) and the manufacturing, distribution, or possession of child pornography (SDCL 22-24A-3). Continual sexual abuse of a child, which involves multiple instances of sexual abuse over a period, is also a serious felony offense in South Dakota (SDCL 22-22-1). These laws are designed to protect minors from sexual exploitation and abuse, and violations can result in severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences.