18 U.S.C. § 2244 – Abusive sexual contact
This law makes non-consensual sexual contact a federal crime when it occurs in situations covered by other federal sex offense statutes.
Section 2244 applies when sexual contact occurs under circumstances that would be charged as more serious federal sex crimes if the conduct involved a sexual act instead of sexual contact. In short, it covers inappropriate or abusive touching that falls short of penetration but still violates federal law.
What the law prohibits.
A person violates this statute if they knowingly engage in sexual contact in any of the following situations:
- Sexual contact involving force, threats, or incapacitation that would qualify as aggravated sexual abuse or sexual abuse if it were a sexual act.
- Sexual contact with a minor or ward where the conduct would be illegal under federal age or custody-based sex offense laws.
- Non-consensual sexual contact, even without force, when the contact occurs in federal jurisdiction or a federal detention setting.
- Causing another person to engage in sexual contact under any of the above circumstances.
The statute also applies to attempts to engage in abusive sexual contact.
Enhanced penalties for children.
If the sexual contact involves a child under the age of 12, the maximum possible prison sentence may be increased beyond the standard limits.
Penalties.
Punishment depends on the underlying circumstances and the statute the conduct mirrors:
- Up to 2 years in federal prison for non-consensual sexual contact.
- Up to 3 or 10 years if the conduct parallels more serious abuse statutes.
- Life imprisonment is possible in the most severe child-related cases.
If you are being investigated for a federal sex offense involving sexual contact, call (314) 900-HELP or contact a criminal defense attorney for guidance.
