What is Fourth Degree Sexual Assault?
Video Transcript
In this video, we will discuss Fourth Degree Sexual Assault including the definition and its potential implications.
Fourth Degree Sexual Assault generally refers to cases involving non-consensual sexual contact. Each state within the US has specific definitions and criteria for what constitutes every level of offense, including fourth degree sexual assault.
Fourth degree sexual assault is typically the lowest level criminal charge for sexual assault and typically involves non-consensual sexual acts that generally do not include rape or severe physical harm.
However, in some states it is defined differently – such as Alaska’s fourth-degree sexual assault crime classification which covers individuals who have sexual contact with victims whom they have supervisory, disciplinary, or other authority over such as correctional officer harming an inmate.
The legal consequences for Fourth Degree Sexual Assault vary. They might be classified as misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the severity and specific circumstances surrounding the case and how the state defines the offense.
Fourth degree sexual assault is a term seen within the criminal legal system and an individual may be charged and/or convicted of other crimes alongside fourth degree sexual assault. Oftentimes, an individual may be charged with a more severe type of offense but a plea deal is offered for a lesser offense for a variety of reasons.
State prosecutors and the criminal legal system are the only ones who can label an incident of sexual assault as any degree – and this may not align with how the victim of sexual assault may define the harm that happened to them.
If you have questions or are seeking assistance, you can reach out to us at Helping Survivors or an organization like RAINN who can help you understand your rights and options.
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