Statutory Rape - Am I a Sex Offender - Milwaukee Statutory Rape Defense

Statutory rape, which is classified as a sex crime in Wisconsin, is the act of an adult having sexual contact with someone who hasn’t reached the age of consent. Because minors aren’t considered capable of giving informed consent, it’s considered rape. (It’s very important that you contact a Milwaukee attorney who understands statutory rape charges if you’re facing this in the legal system, because you need someone in your corner to protect your rights.)

Statutory Rape in Wisconsin

The best way to understand statutory rape in Wisconsin is to look at an established case. Near the end of last year, 36-year-old Wisconsin teacher Matthew Koenen was charged with having sex with two of his students. His bail was set for $150,000 and only on the condition that he wouldn’t have any contact with girls between the ages of 13 and 18.

Penalties for Statutory Rape in Wisconsin

People who are convicted of statutory rape in Wisconsin are penalized based on the ages of the victims and the type of sexual contact that happened between them.

  • First-degree sexual assault of a child, which is any kind of sexual touching of a child who’s age 12 or younger, is a Class B felony. It is punishable by up to 60 years in prison.
  • Second-degree sexual assault of a child, which is any kind of sexual contact with a child aged 13, 14 or 15, is a Class C felony. This type of sexual assault carries a potential penalty of up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $100,000, or a combination of the two.
  • Sexual intercourse with a child 16 or older is, like the name implies, sex with a 16-year-old or 17-year-old minor. It’s a Class A misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to nine months in jail or a fine of up to $10,000.

Additionally, people who are convicted of statutory rape in the state of Wisconsin must register as sex offenders.

It’s so important to talk to a Milwaukee attorney who can represent you in a statutory rape case. An attorney will watch out for your rights and ensure the process is fair – and he or she may be able to negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf.