Criminal sexual conduct in Minnesota covers all sexual offenses. The state classifies criminal sexual conduct into five categories, using varying degrees. The rankings determine the seriousness of the crime and the severity of the resulting punishment. Criminal sexual conduct in the first and third degrees are crimes where the offender sexually penetrated the victim. Criminal sexual conduct in the second, fourth and fifth degree apply to sexual offenses involving sexual contact but no penetration. First-degree criminal sexual conduct carries the harshest penalties.
What is first-degree criminal sexual conduct?
Criminal sexual conduct in the first degree is the most serious of all. It involves sexual penetration with violence, force or threat of violence. The complainant did not consent to the sexual penetration. The complainant could have been under a state of duress, physically helpless or mentally incapacitated. It also includes sexual penetration when the complainant is underage, particularly under the following circumstances:
- The complainant is 13 years old or younger, and the defendant is at least three years older than the complainant
- The complainant is between the ages of 13 and 16, and the defendant was at least four years older than the complainant
- The complainant is under the age of 16 and has a significant relationship with the defendant
A significant relationship is one where the defendant is in a position of power over the complainant. It can also be one where the defendant lives with the complainant, but they are not married to each other. You must understand the true nature of this crime, especially when someone is accusing you of something so heinous.
What are the maximum penalties?
A person facing a first-degree sex crime conviction could be looking at thirty years in prison and fines of up to $40,000. The complainant must have physical scientific evidence to prove that the defendant committed the crime beyond a reasonable doubt because such a conviction can permanently destroy a person’s life.
If someone is accusing you of a sex crime, regardless of the degree, you must act fast to defend yourself against these charges. While a first-degree criminal sexual conduct crime is the worst of the five, the other four also have life-altering implications. You should know where you stand and how to build a solid defense against preposterous allegations.