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Speak Up! - View Question #17477 |
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Question: who can press charges for stachetory rape
Answer: Generally, anybody with knowledge of a sexual relationship between a person who is under the age of consent (18) and a person who is over the age of consent (18) can ask that charges be filed. That means that a family member or a friend of either party, a co-worker, teacher, counselor, employer, or a stranger who can testify to the illegal relationship, is able to press charges.
Often times, the parents of the younger person ask that charges be filed, but it is not uncommon for the younger person to file the charges on their own. The police will investigate any allegations and decide whether or not to pursue the matter any further. Afterwards, they present their evidence to the prosecution and the prosecution decides whether or not to take the matter to court. It does not matter if the person under 18 agrees or not. See Arizona Revised Statutes section 13-2405(A), Sexual Conduct with a Minor (A.R.S. § 13-1405(A))
Visit the Arizona Crime Victims Website for more information about victim's rights, where to get help and other resources. You may also want to visit the Arizona Department of Health's Rape Prevention and Education Program for an on-line list of Arizona and National Crisis Lines and related concerns.
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