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A. Statutory Rape - Criminal Offenses
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Individuals less than 16 years of age cannot consent to sexual acts with someone who is at least 19 years of age.[467]
Definition of Offenses
Offense Definition Debauching a minor[468] Debauching or depraving morals by lewdly inducing someone less than 17 years of age to carnally know any other person. Sexual assault of a child[469] Sexual contact[470] with someone less than 15 years of age where the defendant is at least 19 years of age. 1st degree sexual assault[471] Sexual penetration[472] with someone less than 16 years of age where the defendant is at least 19 years of age.
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B. Child Abuse Reporting Requirements
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1. Inclusion of statutory rape in reporting requirements
Mandatory reporters must report all cases where they have reasonable cause to believe that a child has been the victim of abuse.[473] Although the statutory definition of abuse does not make specific reference to the crimes listed in the previous section, it includes knowingly, intentionally, or negligently causing a minor child to be sexually abused.[474] The definition does not include any provisions that indicate that it applies only to defendants responsible for the care of the victim.
2. Mandatory reporters
Mandatory reporters include any individual who has reasonable cause to believe that a child has been the victim of abuse. The statute makes specific reference to physicians, medical institutions, nurses, school employees, and social workers.[475]
3. Who to report to
The Department of Health and Human Services is required to maintain a statewide toll-free hotline to receive reports of abuse at all times. Mandated reporters must notify the Department (through this hotline) or the proper law enforcement agency of cases of abuse. Initial reports must be followed by more detailed written reports.[476]
4. State response
Law enforcement and the Department of Health and Human Services must notify one another within one business day of receiving a report. Law enforcement is responsible for investigating reports of child abuse and may request assistance from the Department.[477]
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