A person generally commits the criminal offense of sexual assault of a child—regardless of whether the person knows the age of the child at the time of the offense—if the person (1) causes the penetration of the anus or sexual organ of a child by any means; (2) causes the penetration of the mouth of a child by the sexual organ of the person; (3) causes the sexual organ of the child to contact or penetrate the mouth, anus, or sexual organ of the person or another person; (4) causes the anus of a child to contact the mouth, anus, or sexual organ of the person or another person; or (5) causes the mouth of a child to contact the anus or sexual organ of the person or another person.

The naming and definition of the criminal offense of sexual assault of a child varies from state to state. These criminal offenses are generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal or criminal code.

In Louisiana, the criminal offense of sexual assault of a child is addressed under the state's statutory rape and sexual battery laws. Louisiana law defines a child as a person under the age of 17 for the purposes of sexual offense statutes. The state's laws criminalize various forms of sexual activity with minors, including those outlined in the description provided. Specifically, Louisiana Revised Statutes Title 14, Section 80 (Felony carnal knowledge of a juvenile) and Section 43 (Sexual battery) are relevant to such offenses. These statutes make it illegal for an adult to engage in sexual acts with a minor, including penetration and contact as described, regardless of whether the adult knows the age of the child. The law is designed to protect minors from sexual exploitation and abuse. Penalties for these offenses are severe and can include imprisonment, fines, and registration as a sex offender. It is important for individuals to be aware of these laws and the serious consequences of engaging in sexual conduct with minors.