NCJ Number
178238
Date Published
2000
Length
24 pages
Publication Series
Annotation
This handbook on statutory rape issues is designed to help State legislators develop effective and enforceable statutory rape laws.
Abstract
The handbook provides a framework for developing and analyzing legislation that would criminalize sexual intercourse with a crime based on the age of the minor. The handbook begins with background information and then discusses specific statutory rape issues. These issues concern raising the age of consent, age differentials, pregnancy, reporting, and penalties. The handbook includes questions for each issue that legislators and policymakers should consider before drafting new legislation or amending existing laws. Findings from a survey of statutory rape legislation considered by state legislators during the 1995-1997 period are presented. 6 notes
Date Published: January 1, 2000