Indecent assault and battery essentially means intentionally touching another person’s body in any area that we usually consider to be a “private part” in a way that is harmful or offensive and without justification or excuse. Private areas of the body include genitals, buttocks, and female breasts, but many areas could be considered a “private area” depending on the context of the touching.
What is the Punishment for Indecent Assault and Battery?
The punishment and the consequences depend on the age of the victim. There are two types of indecent assault and battery: Indecent Assault and Battery on a Person Aged 14 or Older and Indecent Assault and Battery on a Person Under 14. The former is punishable by up to 5 years in state prison or up to 2 ½ years in the house of correction. The latter is more serious because it involves the sexual abuse of children, and it is punishable by up to 10 years in state prison or up to 2 ½ years in the house of correction. Indecent assault and battery on a person under 14 is also far more serious in terms of sex offender registration obligations because it is considered a sexually violent offense, a sex offense involving a child, and a Wetterling offense, whereas indecent assault and battery on a person aged 14 or older is not considered any of those.
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Boston Criminal Defense Lawyers Blog – Assault and Battery
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