Blog: Sex Crimes

What is the Penalty of Sexual offense in the Third Degree?

Jun 28, 2024

Sexual offense in the third degree is a felony sexual offense charge codified under Md.Code, Crim. Law § 3-307. Sexual offense in the third degree criminalizes five types of actions. First, sexual offense in the third degree criminalizes engaging in sexual contact with another without the consent of the other; and employ[ing] or display[displaying] a dangerous weapon, or a physical object that the victim reasonably believes is a dangerous weapon; suffocate[ing], strangle[ing],...

What are the consequences of Sexual Offense in the Fourth Degree?

Jun 13, 2024

Sexual offense in the fourth degree (Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-308) is a misdemeanor sexual offense charge in Maryland. The fact it is labeled a misdemeanor may make the charge sound less serious, but, this is not the case. There are serious consequences to being charged and convicted of sexual offense in the fourth degree. What is Sexual Offense in the Fourth Degree? Sexual offense in the fourth degree criminalizes four main...

Can I be sued for revenge porn in Maryland?

Dec 26, 2023

Yes. While revenge porn is a crime in Maryland, victims of revenge porn in Maryland also have legal avenues for compensation in the civil court system. Revenge porn is the non-consensual sharing of intimate images or videos without the other person’s consent. Victims of revenge porn in Maryland have the right to file a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator. The most common civil claim for revenge porn is intentional infliction of emotional distress (IIED). A...

Maryland sexual assault laws

Oct 31, 2023

Defendants accused of sexual offenses in Maryland can potentially face several different types of charges. State law divides rape into two categories, while other sexual crimes, sometimes called sexual assault, have four classes. Rape categories and penalties State law for Sexual assault can involve oral sex or forced penetration anywhere except the vagina combined with threats for first-degree offenses. Second-degree has the same definition as the second-degree rape charge. Third- and...

What are the penalties for inappropriate student/teacher contact?

Jul 18, 2023

A The trial is scheduled to begin August 16. Maryland has several laws that criminalize sexual behavior with children. There are also specific laws in Maryland regarding sex crimes by teachers and other school employees. Although the age of consent in Maryland is 16, it is a criminal offense under Maryland law for teachers and school employees over the age of 21 to engage in sexual activity with school students under the...

Marital rape is more than a violation of trust

Jul 10, 2023

Married couples take vows to love, honor and cherish. Unfortunately, there are many ways that the bonds of trust can be broken. One way that can occur is when a person falsely accuses their Maryland spouse of marital rape; this is what to know if you’ve been accused. Understanding marital rape There are many different Like other forms of rape, marital rape involves forced sex onto a victim. In this case,...

Approaches to treating pedophiles and reducing sex crimes

Jul 7, 2023

People can be tough to treat, but pedophiles might be some of the toughest. Fortunately, some approaches have been proven to reduce sex crimes and protect Maryland children from pedophiles. Here are some of the most effective methods: Cognitive behavioral therapy This therapy helps individuals understand their thoughts and feelings and modify their behavior to have more positive outcomes. This is particularly beneficial for those with pedophilic tendencies, as it can help them...

What are the penalties in Maryland for indecent exposure?

Mar 8, 2023

Ocean City, Maryland is an oceanside resort town. Sometimes, while on vacation, people have a bit too much too drink and do things they normally wouldn’t do such as expose themselves to others. It can be surprising who is facing such charges. A Cecil County prosecutor was charged with indecent exposure and disorderly conduct. Officers responded to a report of a nude man on a balcony at an Ocean City, Maryland hotel. He...

What is the statute of limitations for rape in Maryland?

Feb 24, 2023

Maryland’s Here is a breakdown of the laws as they stand in 2023: Felony sex crimes Maryland has no statute of limitations for felony sexual crimes, regardless of the age of the victim. This includes: First-degree and second-degree rape First-, second- and third-degree sexual offense First- and second-degree attempted rape First- and second-degree attempted sexual offense First-degree rape This action is defined as forcibly compelling...

Does Maryland have Romeo and Juliet laws?

Feb 9, 2023

It’s common for age of consent laws and Romeo and Juliet laws to get a little muddy. Maryland has largely avoided this confusion with straightforward, consistent age parameters. Here are how these laws break down as they currently stand. Age of consent This refers to the minimum age at which an individual is judged competent enough to legally consent to sexual activities. Each state in the U.S. has laws regarding age of consent,...