John Gregory Branch

This statute creates three age-based sexual offenses: mitigated statutory rape (victim 15-17, defendant 4-5 years older), statutory rape (victim 13-17, defendant 4-9 years older depending on victim's age), and aggravated statutory rape (victim 13-17, defendant 10+ years older). These crimes are charged based on the age difference between the defendant and minor victim rather than force or lack of consent, since minors cannot legally consent. All carry 1 to 6 years in prison and fines up to $3,000 for first-time offenses, with possible enhancement to Class D felony for repeat offenses.

Penalty: Class E felony; 1-6 years; fine up to $3,000