Rape

A rape, generally termed "sexual assault" in criminal statutes, is a felony. The crime is typically defined as engaging in vaginal, oral or anal intercourse by use of force, drugs or by placing the victim in fear. Attempted rape is also a felony offense.

"Statutory rape" is intercourse with a minor below a specified age and can be prosecuted regardless of whether the minor consented to the illegal act or not. State law sets the age at which a minor can consent to intercourse, usually varying from 14 to 16 years. The decision to prosecute is often influenced by the difference in age between the offender and victim, the relationship (such as teacher-student) and whether there has been a promise to marry.