Sexual assault is a severe crime in Canada, defined as any form of unwanted sexual contact. There are several different types of sexual assault charges that a person can face in Canada, each with its own set of penalties and consequences. This guide will provide an overview of the different types of sexual assault charges in Canada and the legal definitions of each.
Sexual assault:
The most basic and broad definition of sexual assault is unwanted sexual contact. This can include touching, kissing, rubbing, or penetration. Sexual assault is punishable by up to 10 years in prison, and the offender may also be required to register as a sex offender.
Sexual assault with a weapon:
When a weapon is used during a sexual assault, the charges can be upgraded to sexual assault with a gun. This can include using a weapon to threaten or intimidate the victim or you a firearm to overpower them physically. The penalty for this charge is life in prison, and the offender will also be required to register as a sex offender.
Aggravated sexual assault:
Aggravated sexual assault is a more severe charge that is used when the sexual assault causes serious bodily harm to the victim. This can include injuries such as broken bones, disfigurement, or loss of consciousness. The penalty for this charge is life in prison, and the offender will also be required to register as a sex offender.
Sexual assault with threats to a third party:
When a sexual assault is committed with threats to a third party, the charges can be upgraded to sexual assault with threats to a third party. This can include threatening to harm a victim’s family, friends, or property. This charge carries a maximum penalty of 14 years in prison and will require the offender to register as a sex offender.
Sexual assault against a child:
Sexual assault against a child is a separate charge from sexual assault against an adult. This includes sexual contact with a person under the age of 16. The penalty for this charge can range from probation to life in prison and will require the offender to register as a sex offender.
Conclusion:
Sexual assault is a severe crime in Canada, and there are several different types of sexual assault charges that a person can face. These charges include sexual assault, sexual assault with a weapon, aggravated sexual assault, sexual assault with threats to a third party and sexual assault against a child.