The criminal offense of lewd acts with a minor, or lewd and lascivious acts with a minor, is generally committed when (1) the offender touches the child’s body or gets the child to touch the child’s body, the offender’s body, or someone else; (2) the touching occurs on bare skin or through clothing; (3) the touching was for sexual reasons; and (4) the child was under 14 years of age.

Laws regarding lewd acts with a minor vary from state to state, including the required age of the child and the required elements of the criminal offense. And some states classify the criminal offense of lewd acts with minor as the criminal offense of indecency with a minor, or lewd or indecent proposals or acts to a child, or a similar offense.

Some states have expanded the definition of these laws to include looking at the body or private parts of a child in a sexual manner, or causing or forcing a child to witness sex acts in the presence of the child. These states prosecute persons who engage in such activity in online video chat rooms for this criminal offense.

The criminal offense of lewd acts with a minor (or similar offense) is generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal or criminal code.

In Nebraska, the criminal offense of lewd acts with a minor is addressed under the state's penal code, specifically in the statutes pertaining to sexual offenses. Nebraska law defines the offense of child enticement, which includes persuading, coercing, or enticing a child under the age of 16 to engage in sexual activity or to be in a place for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity. This can encompass lewd acts as described. Additionally, Nebraska has laws against sexual assault of a child, which can include any sexual contact or penetration with a person under the age of 16. The severity of the charges and penalties can vary based on the circumstances, including the age of the child and the nature of the act. The state also criminalizes the possession or distribution of child pornography, which can relate to the expanded definitions of lewd acts that include causing or forcing a child to witness sex acts. It is important for individuals in Nebraska to understand that these laws are strictly enforced and carry severe penalties, including imprisonment and registration as a sex offender.