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Statutes of Limitations

Last Updated: April 2023
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Alabama What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Rape, first degree

This crime is a Class A felony.

  1. No time limit for the prosecution of any capital offense; any felony involving the use of, attempted use of, or threat of, violence to a person; any felony involving serious physical injury or death of a person; and any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.  See Kirby v. State, 500 So.2d 79, 80 (Ala. Crim. App. 1986), a case which held that: no time limit for the offense of rape because rape is classified for limitations purposes as an offense which may be punished capitally; therefore, statute of limitations for felony offenses does not apply to rape. See also Ex parte Beverly, 497 So.2d 519 (Ala. 1986), a case which held that the Alabama legislature never intended for rape to cease being a “capital offense” for purposes of the statute of limitations as a result of any court invalidating Alabama’s capital punishment laws. See also Chamblee v. State, 527 So.2d 173, 174 (Ala. Crim. App. 1988).
  1. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-61.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-1 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
Rape, second degree

This crime is a Class B felony.

  1. No time limit for the prosecution of any capital offense; any felony involving the use of, attempted use of, or threat of, violence to a person; any felony involving serious physical injury or death of a person; and any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.  See Kirby v. State, 500 So.2d 79, 80 (Ala. Crim. App. 1986), a case which held that: no time limit for the offense of rape because rape is classified for limitations purposes as an offense which may be punished capitally; therefore, statute of limitations for felony offenses does not apply to rape.  See also Ex parte Beverly, 497 So.2d 519 (Ala. 1986), a case which held that the Alabama legislature never intended for rape to cease being a “capital offense” for purposes of the statute of limitations as a result of any court invalidating Alabama’s capital punishment laws.  See also Chamblee v. State, 527 So.2d 173, 174 (Ala. Crim. App. 1988).
  1. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-62.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-1 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
Sodomy, first degree

This crime is a Class A felony.

  1. For all felonies, within five years after commission of the offense, except those specified in Section 15-3-3, Section 15-3-5 or any other felony that has a specified limitations period; or
  2. No time limit for the prosecution of any capital offense; any felony involving the use of, attempted use of, or threat of, violence to a person; any felony involving serious physical injury or death of a person; and any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-63.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-1 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
Sodomy, second degree

This crime is a class B felony.

  1. For all felonies, within five years after commission of the offense, except those specified in Section 15-3-3, Section 15-3-5 or any other felony that has a specified limitations period; or
  2. No time limit for the prosecution of any capital offense; any felony involving the use of, attempted use of, or threat of, violence to a person; any felony involving serious physical injury or death of a person; and any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-64.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-1 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
Sexual misconduct

This crime is a Class A misdemeanor.

  1. For all misdemeanors, within one year after commission of the offense; or
  2. No time limit for the prosecution of any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-65.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-2 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
Sexual torture

This crime is a Class A felony.

  1. For all felonies, within five years after commission of the offense, except those specified in Section 15-3-3, Section 15-3-5 or any other felony that has a specified limitations period; or
  2. No time limit for the prosecution of: any capital offense; any felony involving the use of, attempted use of, or threat of, violence to a person; any felony involving serious physical injury or death of a person; or any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-65.1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-1 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
Sexual abuse, first degree

This crime is a Class C felony.

  1. For all felonies, within five years after commission of the offense, except those specified in Section 15-3-3, Section 15-3-5 or any other felony that has a specified limitations period; or
  2. No time limit for the prosecution of: any capital offense; any felony involving the use of, attempted use of, or threat of, violence to a person; any felony involving serious physical injury or death of a person; or any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-66.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-1 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
Sexual abuse, second degree

This crime is generally a Class A misdemeanor. However, if the offender commits a second or subsequent offense of sexual abuse in the second degree within one year of another sexual offense, then the offense is a Class C felony. Additionally, if the offender is 19 years old or order, the victim is at least 12 years old but under 16 years old, and the offender is at least 15 years older than the victim, then the offense is a Class C felony.

  1. If a misdemeanor, within one year after commission of the offense;  
  2. If a felony, within five years after commission of the offense, except those specified in Section 15-3-3, Section 15-3-5 or any other felony that has a specified limitations period; or
  3. No time limit for the prosecution of: any capital offense; any felony involving the use of, attempted use of, or threat of, violence to a person; any felony involving serious physical injury or death of a person; or any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-67.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-1, Ala. Code § 15-3-2 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
Enticing child under 16 to enter vehicle, house, etc., for immoral purposes

This crime is a Class C felony.

  1. No time limit for the prosecution of any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-69.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-1 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
Sexual abuse of a child under 12

This crime is a Class B felony.

  1. No time limit for the prosecution of any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-69.1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-1 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
Transmitting obscene material to a child under 17 by computer

This crime is a Class B felony.

  1. For all felonies, within five years after commission of the offense, except those specified in Section 15-3-3, Section 15-3-5 or any other felony that has a specified limitations period; or
  2. No time limit for the prosecution of: any capital offense; any felony involving the use of, attempted use of, or threat of, violence to a person; any felony involving serious physical injury or death of a person; or any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-111.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-1 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
Facilitating solicitation of unlawful sexual conduct with a child under 16

This crime is a Class C felony.

  1. No time limit for the prosecution of any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-121.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-1 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
Electronic solicitation of a child under 16

This crime is a Class B felony.

  1. No time limit for the prosecution of any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-122.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-1 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
Incest

This crime is a Class C felony, unless the victim is under 17 years old, in which case this crime is a Class A felony.

  1. For all felonies, within five years after commission of the offense, except those specified in Section 15-3-3, Section 15-3-5 or any other felony that has a specified limitations period; or
  2. No time limit for the prosecution of: any capital offense; any felony involving the use of, attempted use of, or threat of, violence to a person; any felony involving serious physical injury or death of a person; or any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-13-3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-1 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
School employee having sexual contact with a student under the age of 19 (or is a protected person under the age of 22 years)

The crime of a school employee having sexual contact with a student or student protected person is a Class C felony. The crime of soliciting a student or student protected person to perform a sex act is a Class A misdemeanor.

  1. If a felony, within five years after commission of the offense, except those specified in Section 15-3-3, Section 15-3-5 or any other felony that has a specified limitations period;
  2. If a misdemeanor, within one year after commission of the offense; or
  3. No time limit for the prosecution of any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.

Note: “School employee” includes a teacher, school administrator, student teacher, safety or resource officer, coach, adult volunteer in a position of authority, or any other school employee who has contact with a student in his or her official capacity as a school employee.
  1. Citation for the definition of school employee: Ala. Code § 13A-6-80.
  2. Citation for the definition of protected person: Ala. Code § 15-25-1.
  3. Citation for the definition of sexual contact: Ala. Code § 13A-6-60.
  4. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-82.
  5. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-1, Ala. Code § 15-3-2 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
Facilitating the on-line solicitation of a child under 16

This crime is a Class B felony.

  1. No time limit for the prosecution of any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-123.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-1 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
Traveling to meet a child under 16 for an unlawful sex act

This crime is a Class A felony.

  1. No time limit for the prosecution of any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-124.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-1 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
Facilitating the travel of a child under 16 for an unlawful sex act

This crime is a Class A felony.

  1. No time limit for the prosecution of any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-125.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-1 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
Indecent exposure

This crime is a Class A misdemeanor. However, a third or subsequent conviction is a Class C felony.

  1. For all misdemeanors, within one year after commission of the offense;
  2. For all felonies, within five years after commission of the offense, except those specified in Section 15-3-3, Section 15-3-5 or any other felony that has a specified limitations period; or
  3. No time limit for the prosecution of: any capital offense; any felony involving the use of, attempted use of, or threat of, violence to a person; any felony involving serious physical injury or death of a person; or any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-68.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-1, Ala. Code § 15-3-2 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
School employee engaging in a sex act with a student under the age of 19 years (or is a protected person under the age of 22 years)

This crime is a Class B felony.

  1. For all felonies, within five years after commission of the offense, except those specified in Section 15-3-3, Section 15-3-5 or any other felony that has a specified limitations period; or
  2. No time limit for the prosecution of: any capital offense; any felony involving the use of, attempted use of, or threat of, violence to a person; any felony involving serious physical injury or death of a person; or any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.

Note:  “School employee” includes a teacher, school administrator, student teacher, safety or resource officer, coach, adult volunteer in a position of authority, or any other school employee who has contact with a student in his or her official capacity as a school employee.
  1. Citation for the definition of school employee: Ala. Code § 13A-6-80.
  2. Citation for the definition of protected person: Ala. Code § 15-25-1.
  3. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-81.
  4. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-1, Ala. Code § 15-3-3 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?
Foster parent engaging in a sex act with a foster child

This crime is a Class B felony.

  1. For all felonies, within five years after commission of the offense, except those specified in Section 15-3-3, Section 15-3-5 or any other felony that has a specified limitations period; or
  2. No time limit for the prosecution of: any capital offense; any felony involving the use of, attempted use of, or threat of, violence to a person; any felony involving serious physical injury or death of a person; or any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.
  1. Citation for the definition of sexual intercourse or deviant sexual intercourse: Ala. Code § 13A-60-60(1) or (2).
  2. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-71.
  3. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-1 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
Foster parent engaging in sexual contact with a foster child

This crime is a Class C felony.

  1. For all felonies, within five years after commission of the offense, except those specified in Section 15-3-3, Section 15-3-5 or any other felony that has a specified limitations period; or
  2. No time limit for the prosecution of: any capital offense; any felony involving the use of, attempted use of, or threat of, violence to a person; any felony involving serious physical injury or death of a person; or any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.
  1. Citation for the definition of sexual contact: Ala. Code § 13A-60-60(3).
  2. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-71.
  3. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-1 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
Foster parent soliciting a sex act or sexual contact with a foster child

This crime is a Class A misdemeanor.

  1. Within one year after commission of the offense; or
  2. No time limit for the prosecution of: any capital offense; any felony involving the use of, attempted use of, or threat of, violence to a person; any felony involving serious physical injury or death of a person; or any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.
  1. Citation for the definition of sexual act or contact: Ala. Code § 13A-60-60(1)-(3).
  2. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-71.
  3. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-2 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
School employee distributing obscene material to a student

This crime is a Class A misdemeanor.

  1. For all misdemeanors, within one year after commission of the offense; or
  2. No time limit for the prosecution of any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.

Note: “School employee” includes a teacher, school administrator, student teacher, safety or resource officer, coach, adult volunteer in a position of authority, or any other school employee who has contact with a student in his or her official capacity as a school employee.
  1. Citation for the definition of school employee: Ala. Code § 13A-6-80.
  2. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-82.1.
  3. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-2 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
Distributing a private image with intent to harass, threaten, coerce, or intimidate the person depicted.

A first offense is a Class A misdemeanor.  A subsequent adjudication or conviction is a Class C felony.

  1. For all misdemeanors, within one year after commission of the offense;
  2. For all felonies, within five years after commission of the offense, except those specified in Section 15-3-3, Section 15-3-5 or any other felony that has a specified limitations period; or
  3. No time limit for the prosecution of: any capital offense; any felony involving the use of, attempted use of, or threat of, violence to a person; any felony involving serious physical injury or death of a person; or any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-240.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-, Ala. Code § 15-3-2 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
Assault with bodily fluids

A first offense is a Class A misdemeanor.  If the person commits the crime knowing that he or she has a communicable disease, then it is a Class C felony.

  1. For all misdemeanors, within one year after commission of the offense;
  2. For all felonies, within five years after commission of the offense, except those specified in Section 15-3-3, Section 15-3-5 or any other felony that has a specified limitations period;
  3. No time limit for the prosecution of: any capital offense; any felony involving the use of, attempted use of, or threat of, violence to a person; any felony involving serious physical injury or death of a person; or any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-242.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-, Ala. Code § 15-3-2 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
Sexual Extortion

This crime is a Class B felony.

  1. For all felonies, within five years after commission of the offense, except those specified in Section 15-3-3, Section 15-3-5 or any other felony that has a specified limitations period; or
  2. No time limit for the prosecution of: any capital offense; any felony involving the use of, attempted use of, or threat of, violence to a person; any felony involving serious physical injury or death of a person; or any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-241.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-1 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.
Directing a child to engage in sexual intercourse or sodomy

Directing a child to engage in sexual intercourse or sodomy is a Class A felony. Directing a child to engage in sexual contact is a Class B felony. 

  1. For all felonies, within five years after commission of the offense, except those specified in Section 15-3-3, Section 15-3-5 or any other felony that has a specified limitations period; or
  2. No time limit for the prosecution of: any capital offense; any felony involving the use of, attempted use of, or threat of, violence to a person; any felony involving serious physical injury or death of a person; any sex offense involving a victim under 16 years of age, regardless of whether it involves force or serious physical injury or death.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ala. Code § 13A-6-243.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ala. Code § 15-3-1 and Ala. Code § 15-3-5.






Alaska What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Sexual assault, first degree

This crime is an unclassified felony, except if the offender impersonates someone known to the victim for the purpose of obtaining consent, in which case it is a Class A felony. 

  1. No time limit.
  1. Citation for the crime: Alaska Stat. § 11.41.410.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Alaska Stat. § 12.10.010.
Sexual assault, second degree

This crime is a Class B felony. 

  1. No time limit.
  1. Citation for the crime: Alaska Stat. § 11.41.420.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Alaska Stat. § 12.10.010.
Sexual assault, third degree

This crime is a Class C felony. 

  1. No time limit for prosecution of crime if it is committed against a victim under 18 (at the time of the offense);
  2. No time limit for prosecution of crime if offender, an employee of a state correctional facility or other placement designated by the commissioner of corrections for the custody and care of prisoners, engages in sexual penetration with victim, who offender knows is committed to the custody of the Department of Corrections to serve a term of imprisonment or period of temporary commitment (§ 11.41.425(a)(2));
  3. No time limit for prosecution of crime if offender is the legal guardian of victim and engages in sexual penetration with a person 18 or 19 years of age who the offender knows is committed to the custody of the Department of Health and Social Services under AS 47.10 or AS 47.12 (§ 11.41.425(a)(3));
  4. No time limit for prosecution of crime if offender, while employed in the state by a law enforcement agency as a peace officer, or acting as a peace officer in the state, engages in sexual penetration with a person with reckless disregard that the person is in the custody or the apparent custody of the offender or is committed to the custody of a law enforcement agency (§ 11.41.425(a)(4));
  5. Within ten years after commission of the offense when offender engages in sexual contact with a victim who is mentally incapable, incapacitated, or unaware that a sexual act is being committed (§ 11.41.425(a)(1));
  6. Within ten years after commission of the offense if the offender is employed by the state or a municipality of the state as a probation or parole officer or is acting as a probation or parole officer in the state and engages in sexual penetration with a person with reckless disregard that the person is on probation or parole (§ 11.41.425(a)(5));
  7. Within ten years after commission of the offense when a juvenile probation officer or juvenile facility staff engages in sexual penetration with a person 18 or 19 years of age with reckless disregard that the person is committed to the custody or probationary supervision of the Department of Health and Social Services (§ 11.41.425(a)(6)); or
  8. Within five years after commission of the offense if the offender engages in sexual contact with another person without that person’s consent (unless the conduct would otherwise be considered sexual assault in the second degree) ((§ 11.41.425(a)(6)).
  1. Citation for the crime: Alaska Stat. § 11.41.425.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Alaska Stat. § 12.10.010.
Sexual assault, fourth degree

This crime is a Class A misdemeanor. 

  1. No time limit for prosecution of this crime if it is committed against a victim under 18 (at the time of the offense); or
  2. Within five years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Alaska Stat. § 11.41.427.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Alaska Stat. § 12.10.010.
Sexual abuse of a minor, first degree

This crime is an unclassified felony. 

  1. No time limit.
  1. Citation for the crime: Alaska Stat. § 11.41.434.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Alaska Stat. § 12.10.010.
Sexual abuse of a minor, second degree

This crime is Class B felony. 

  1. No time limit.
  1. Citation for the crime: Alaska Stat. § 11.41.436.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Alaska Stat. § 12.10.010.
Sexual abuse of a minor, third degree

This crime is a Class C felony. 

  1. No time limit.
  1. Citation for the crime: Alaska Stat. § 11.41.438.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Alaska Stat. § 12.10.010.
Sexual abuse of a minor, fourth degree

This crime is a Class A misdemeanor. 

  1. Within five years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Alaska Stat. § 11.41.440.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Alaska Stat. § 12.10.010.
Incest

This crime is a Class C felony. 

  1. No time limit for prosecution when the offense is committed against a victim under 18 (at the time of the offense); or
  2. Within ten years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Alaska Stat. § 11.41.450.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Alaska Stat. § 12.10.010.
Online enticement of a minor

This crime is a Class B felony unless the defendant at the time of the offense was required to register as a sex offender or child kidnapper, in which case this crime is a Class A felony. 

  1. No time limit.
  1. Citation for the crime: Alaska Stat. § 11.41.452.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Alaska Stat. § 12.10.010.
Unlawful exploitation of a minor

This crime is a Class A felony, unless the defendant has previously been convicted of this crime in Alaska or a similar crime in Alaska or another jurisdiction or the victim was under 13 years of age at the time of the offense, in which case it is an unclassified felony.

  1. No time limit.
  1. Citation for the crime: Alaska Stat. § 11.41.455.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Alaska Stat. § 12.10.010.
Indecent exposure in the first degree

This crime is a Class B felony if the offense occurs within the observation of a person under 16 years of age; otherwise, it is a Class C felony.

  1. No time limit for prosecution when the offense is committed against a victim under 18 (at the time of the offense); or
  2. Within ten years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Alaska Stat. § 11.41.458.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Alaska Stat. § 12.10.010.
Indecent exposure in the second degree

This crime is a Class B misdemeanor unless the victim was under 16 years of age, in which case this crime is a Class A misdemeanor. 

  1. Within five years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Alaska Stat. § 11.41.460.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Alaska Stat. § 12.10.010.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?






Arizona What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Child sex trafficking

This crime is a Class 2 felony. It may be Class 5 felony if offender engaged in prostitution with a minor at least 15 years old and offender did not know or should not have known the victim was a minor, unless offender has previously been convicted of child sex trafficking or attempted child sex trafficking.

  1. No time limit for prosecution irrespective of whether prosecuted as a Class 2 or 5 felony.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-3212.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-107(A).
Sexual abuse

This crime is a Class 3 felony if victim is under 15.  Otherwise, this crime is a Class 5 felony. 

  1. If Class 3 or Class 5 felony, within seven years after actual discovery by the state or political subdivision having jurisdiction of the offense or discovery by the state or the political subdivision that should have occurred with the exercise of reasonable diligence, whichever first occurs.
  2. Additionally, please see “Violent Sexual Assault” below for more information.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-1404.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-107(B)(1).
Public sexual indecency

This crime is a Class 5 felony if committed against a minor. Otherwise, this crime is a Class 1 misdemeanor. 

  1. If committed against a minor and a Class 5 felony, within seven years after actual discovery by the state or political subdivision having jurisdiction of the offense or discovery by the state or the political subdivision that should have occurred with the exercise of reasonable diligence, whichever first occurs.
  2. If committed against an adult and a Class 1 misdemeanor, within one year after actual discovery by the state or political subdivision having jurisdiction of the offense or discovery by the state or the political subdivision that should have occurred with the exercise of reasonable diligence, whichever first occurs.

NOTE:  A minor is defined under Arizona’s criminal code as “any person who is under eighteen years of age.”
  1. Citation for the crime: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-1403.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-107(B)(1) and § 13-107(B)(2).
  3. Citation for the definition of minor: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-1405(A).
Sexual conduct with a minor

This crime is a Class 2 felony if minor is under 15; Class 6 felony if minor is at least 15 but under 18; or Class 2 felony if minor is at least 15 but offender is or was in a position of trust and the convicted person is not eligible for suspension of sentence, probation, pardon or release from confinement on any basis except as specifically authorized by § 31-233(A) or (B) until the sentence imposed has been served or commuted.

  1. No time limit for prosecution if a Class 2 felony.
  2. If Class 6 felony, within seven years after actual discovery by the state or political subdivision having jurisdiction of the offense or discovery by the state or the political subdivision that should have occurred with the exercise of reasonable diligence, whichever first occurs.
  3. Additionally, please see “Violent Sexual Assault” below for more information.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-1405.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-107(A) and Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-107(B)(1).
Sexual assault

This crime is a Class 2 felony.

  1. No time limit for the prosecution of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-1406.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-107(A).
Unlawful sexual conduct by an adult probation department employee or juvenile court employee

This crime is a Class 2 felony if minor is under 15; Class 3 felony if minor is at least 15 but under 18; or Class 5 felony otherwise.


Note: “Adult probation department employee or juvenile court employee” means an employee of an adult probation department or the juvenile court who either: (i) through the course of employment, directly provides treatment, care, control or supervision to a victim, or (ii) provides presentence or predisposition reports directly to a court regarding the victim.

  1. No time limit for prosecution if a Class 2 felony.
  2. If a Class 3 or Class 5 felony, within seven years after actual discovery by the state or political subdivision having jurisdiction of the offense or discovery by the state or the political subdivision that should have occurred with the exercise of reasonable diligence, whichever first occurs.
Molestation of child under 15

This crime is a Class 2 felony.

  1. No time limit for the prosecution of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-1410.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-107(A).
Continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14

This crime is a Class 2 felony.

  1. No time limit for the prosecution of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-1417.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-107(A).
Sexual misconduct; behavioral health professionals

This crime is a Class 6 felony.

  1. For Class 6 felony, within seven years after actual discovery by the state or political subdivision having jurisdiction of the offense or discovery by the state or the political subdivision that should have occurred with the exercise of reasonable diligence, whichever first occurs.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-1418.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-107(B)(1).
Unlawful sexual conduct; correctional employees

This crime is a Class 2 felony if minor is under 15; Class 3 felony if minor is at least 15 but under 18; or Class 5 felony otherwise.

  1. No time limit for prosecution if a Class 2 felony.
  2. If a Class 3 or Class 5 felony, within seven years after actual discovery by the state or political subdivision having jurisdiction of the offense or discovery by the state or the political subdivision that should have occurred with the exercise of reasonable diligence, whichever first occurs.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-1419.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-107(A) and Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-107(B)(1).
Violent sexual assault

This crime modifies the offenses of Sexual Abuse (§ 13-1404), Sexual Conduct with a Minor (§ 13-1405), Sexual Assault (§ 13-1406), and Molestation of a Child under 15 (§ 13-1410) when those offenses involve a deadly weapon, dangerous instrument, or knowing infliction of serious physical injury, and the perpetrator has a prior felony conviction for any sex offense.

This crime modifies the above offenses by:

  1. Eliminating the time limit for the prosecution of those crimes, if such time limit would otherwise apply. 
  1. Citation for the crime: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-1423.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-107(A).
Commercial sexual exploitation of a minor

This crime is a Class 2 felony.

  1. No time limit for the prosecution of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-3552.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-107(A).
Sexual exploitation of a minor

This crime is a Class 2 felony.

  1. No time limit for the prosecution of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-3553.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-107(A).
Luring a minor for sexual exploitation

This crime is a Class 3 felony.

  1. For Class 3 felony, within seven years after actual discovery by the state or political subdivision having jurisdiction of the offense or discovery by the state or the political subdivision that should have occurred with the exercise of reasonable diligence, whichever first occurs.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-3554.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-107(B)(1).
Aggravated luring of a minor for sexual exploitation

This crime is a Class 2 felony.

  1. No time limit for the prosecution of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-3560.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-107(A).
Incest

This crime is a Class 4 felony. 

  1. For Class 4 felony, within seven years after actual discovery by the state or political subdivision having jurisdiction of the offense or discovery by the state or the political subdivision that should have occurred with the exercise of reasonable diligence, whichever first occurs.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-3608.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-107(B)(1).
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?
  • State v. Gum, 153 P.3d 418, 425–26 (Ariz. Ct. App. 2007)
    • Time limit for the prosecution of  serious offenses enumerated in § 13-604 (including sexual assault) committed prior to the §13-107 amendment effective date of July 21, 1997 is tolled until the state knows the identity of the offender, if as of such amendment date the previous seven-year limitation period had not expired.  See also State v. Aguilar, 178 P.3d 497, 503 (Ariz. Ct. App. 2008).  But see Taylor v. Cruikshank, 148 P.3d 84, 91 (Ariz. Ct. App. 2006) (holding that the 1997 amendment does not apply to crimes committed before its effective date, and thus the statute begins to run when the state discovers or should have discovered that an offense was committed).






Arkansas What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Sexual indecency with a child

This crime is a Class D felony.  If offender is 18 years or older and, for the purpose of arousing or gratifying a sexual desire of themselves or any other person, enters into or remains in a public changing facility that is assigned to persons of the opposite sex while knowing a minor of the opposite sex is present in the public changing facility, the crime is a Class C misdemeanor.

  1. If a felony, a prosecution may be commenced for a violation of this crime at any time; or
  2. If a misdemeanor, within one year after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ark. Code § 5-14-110.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ark. Code § 5-1-109(a)(1)(E) and § 5-1-109(b)(3)(A).
Sexual assault, first degree

This crime is a Class A felony.

  1. A prosecution may be commenced for a violation of this crime at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ark. Code § 5-14-124.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ark. Code § 5-1-109(a)(1)(F).
Sexual assault, second degree

This crime is a Class B felony.  If, however, offender is a minor and victim is less than 14 and not offender’s spouse, then crime is a Class D felony.

  1. A prosecution may be commenced for a violation of this crime at any time if the victim was a minor at the time of the offense; or
  2. Within three years after commission of the offense.

Note: A “minor” is defined under the Arkansas Criminal Code to mean “a person who is less than eighteen (18) years of age.”
  1. Citation for the crime: Ark. Code § 5-14-125.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ark. Code § 5-1-109(a)(1)(G) and § 5-1-109 (b)(2).
  3. Citation for the definition of minor: Ark. Code § 5-1-101(7).
Sexual assault, third degree

This crime is a Class C felony.

  1. A prosecution may be commenced for a violation of this crime at any time if, when the alleged violation occurred, the offense was committed against a minor, the violation has not been previously reported to a law enforcement agency or prosecuting attorney, and the victim has not reached 28 years of age; or
  2. Within three years after commission of the offense.

Note:  A “minor” is defined under the Arkansas Criminal Code to mean “a person who is less than eighteen (18) years of age.”
  1. Citation for the crime: Ark. Code § 5-14-126.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ark. Code § 5-1-109(a)(2)(A) and Ark. Code § 5-1-109(b)(2).
  3. Citation for the definition of minor: Ark. Code § 5-1-101(7).
Sexual assault, fourth degree

This crime is a Class D felony if: (i) offender 20 years of age or older engages in sexual intercourse or deviate sexual activity with victim under 16 who is not offender’s spouse; or (ii) offender is employed with the Division of Correction, Division of Community Correction, Department of Human Services, or any city or county jail and victim is in the custody thereof and not offender’s spouse.

Otherwise this crime is a Class A misdemeanor if an offender 20 years of age or older engages in sexual contact with a victim under 16 who is not the offender’s spouse. 

  1. A prosecution may be commenced for a violation of this crime at any time if, when the alleged violation occurred, the offense was committed against a minor, the violation has not been previously reported to a law enforcement agency or prosecuting attorney, and the victim has not reached the age of twenty-eight (28) years of age;
  2. If a Class D felony, within three years after commission of the offense; or
  3. For misdemeanors and violations, within one year after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ark. Code § 5-14-127.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ark. Code § 5-1-109(a)(2)(B), § 5-1-109(b)(2) and § 5-1-109(b)(3)(A).
Incest

This crime is a Class C felony.

  1. A prosecution may be commenced for a violation of this crime at any time if the victim was a minor at the time of the offense; or
  2. Within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ark. Code § 5-26-202.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ark. Code § 5-1-109(a)(1)(H) and § 5-1-109(b)(2).
Engaging children in sexually explicit conduct for use in visual or print medium

This crime is a Class Y felony.

  1. A prosecution may be commenced for a violation of this crime at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ark. Code § 5-27-303.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ark. Code § 5-1-109(a)(1)(I).
Transportation of minors for prohibited sexual conduct

This crime is a Class Y felony.

  1. A prosecution may be commenced for a violation of this crime at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ark. Code § 5-27-305.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ark. Code § 5-1-109(a)(1)(J).
Internet stalking of a child

This crime is a Class B felony if it involves an attempt to arrange a meeting with a child 15 years or younger or whom the offender believes to be 15 years or younger, or a person who holds himself or herself out as the parent, guardian, family member, or other person of authority over a child 15 years of age or younger or an individual that the person believes to be 15 years of age or younger, even if a meeting with the child never takes place.

Otherwise, this crime is a Class Y felony if the offender arranges a meeting with a child 15 years or younger and the meeting takes place, even if the offender fails to engage the child in (i) sexual intercourse, (ii) sexually explicit conduct, or (iii) deviate sexual activity.

  1. For Class Y felony, within six years after commission of the offense; or
  2. For Class B felony, within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ark. Code § 5-27-306.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ark. Code § 5-1-109(b)(1)(A) and § 5-1-109(b)(2).
Employing or consenting to the use of a child in a sexual performance

This crime is a Class C felony for the first offense, and a Class B felony for subsequent offenses.

  1. A prosecution may be commenced for a violation of this crime at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ark. Code § 5-27-402.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ark. Code § 5-1-109(a)(1)(K).
Producing, directing or promoting child sexual performance

This crime is a Class Y felony.

  1. A prosecution may be commenced for a violation of this crime at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ark. Code § 5-27-403.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ark. Code § 5-1-109(a)(1)(L).
Rape

This crime is a Class Y felony. 

  1. Within six years after commission of the offense;
  2. If the crime was committed against a minor, prosecution can occur at any time; or
  1. The period of limitation is eliminated if biological evidence of the alleged perpetrator is identified that is capable of producing a DNA profile.

Note:  A “minor” is defined under the Arkansas Criminal Code to mean “a person who is less than eighteen (18) years of age.”
  1. Citation for the crime: Ark. Code § 5-14-103.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ark. Code § 5-1-109(a)(1)(D) and § 5-1-109(b)(1)(A).
  3. Citation for the definition of minor: Ark. Code § 5-1-101(7).
Knowingly transmitting AIDS, HIV

This crime is a Class A felony.

  1. Within six years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ark. Code § 5-14-123.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ark. Code § 5-1-109(b)(1)(A).
Computer exploitation of a child in the first degree

This crime is a Class Y felony.

  1. A prosecution may be commenced for a violation of this crime at any time. 
  1. Citation for the crime: Ark. Code § 5-27-605(a).
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ark. Code § 5-1-109(a)(1)(M).
Computer exploitation of a child in the second degree

This crime is a Class C felony. 

  1. Within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ark. Code § 5-27-605(b).
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ark. Code § 5-1-109(b)(2).
Sexually grooming a child

This crime is a Class D felony if the perpetrator is 21 years or older. If, however, the perpetrator is under 21 years old, this crime is a Class A misdemeanor.

  1. For a Class D felony, within three years after commission of the offense; or
  2. For misdemeanors and violations, within one year after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ark. Code § 5-27-307.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ark. Code § 5-1-109(b)(2) and (b)(3)(A).
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations law?
Anything else I should know?






California What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Rape
  1. Prosecution for a felony offense described in paragraph (1), (2), (3), (4), (6) or (7) of subdivision (a) of Section 261 may be commenced at any time for crimes that were committed on or after January 1, 2017, and for crimes for which the statute of limitations that was in effect prior to January 1, 2017, has not run as of January 1, 2017;
  2. Prosecution of crimes that were committed on or after January 1, 2015, or for which the statute of limitations that was in effect prior to January 1, 2015, has not run as of January 1, 2015, and are alleged to have been committed when the victim was under 18 years of age, may be commenced any time prior to the victim’s 40th birthday; or
  3. Prosecution must bring a case against the perpetrator within 6 years after commission of the offense.

This section outlines the punishments for rape, the length of punishment time being a modifying factor when determining the statute of limitations for each crime.  The punishment is as follows:

  1. Rape, as defined in § 261, is punishable by imprisonment in the state prison for 3, 6, or 8 years;
  2. Rape involving a child under the age of 14 is punishable by imprisonment in the state prison for 9, 11 or 13 years if the rape was done against the victim’s will by means of force, violence, duress, menace, or fear of immediate and unlawful bodily injury on the victim or another; and
  3. Rape involving a minor over 14 years of age is punishable by imprisonment in the state prison for 7, 9 or 11 years if the rape was done against the victim’s will by means of force, violence, duress, menace, or fear of immediate and unlawful bodily injury on the victim or another.
  1. Citation for the crime: Cal. Penal Code § 261.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Cal. Penal Code § 799(b)(1), §800, § 801.1(a)(1), § 801.1(a)(2) and § 803.
  3. Citation for the punishments: Cal. Penal Code § 264.
Unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor

This crime is a misdemeanor if victim is not more than three years older or three years younger than offender; misdemeanor or felony if victim is more than three years younger than offender and punishable by imprisonment in a county jail not exceeding 1 year, or by imprisonment in the state prison for up to 3 years; misdemeanor or felony if offender is at least 21 and victim is under 16 and punishable by imprisonment in a county jail not exceeding one year, or by imprisonment in the state prison for 2, 3, or 4 years.

  1. Prosecution for an offense punishable by imprisonment in the state prison or pursuant to subdivision (h) of § 1170 [describing trial court’s options for sentencing up to 3 years] must be commenced within 3 years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Cal. Penal Code § 261.5.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Cal. Penal Code § 801.
Spousal rape

This crime was repealed as of October 7, 2021.

Cal. Assemb. B. 1171 (2021-22), Chapter 626 (Cal. Stat. 2022), § 20.
Rape or penetration of genital or anal openings by foreign object, etc.; acting by force or violence; punishment

This crime is punishable by imprisonment in the state prison for 5, 7 or 9 years; or if the victim is under 14 years of age, then the crime is punishable by imprisonment for 10, 12 or 14 years; or if the victim is a minor over the age of 14, then 7, 9 or 11 years.

  1. Prosecution for a felony offense described in Section 264.1 may be commenced at any time for crimes that were committed on or after January 1, 2017, and for crimes for which the statute of limitations that was in effect prior to January 1, 2017, has not run as of January 1, 2017; or
  2. Prosecution must bring a case against the perpetrator within 6 years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Cal. Penal Code § 264.1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Cal. Penal Code § 799, § 800.
Unlawful sexual intercourse, sexual penetration, oral copulation, or sodomy; consent procured by false or fraudulent representation with intent to create fear; punishment

This crime is punishable by imprisonment in a county jail not exceeding one year, or by imprisonment in the state prison for 2, 3 or 4 years.

  1. Prosecution must bring a case against the perpetrator within 3 years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Cal. Penal Code § 266c.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Cal. Penal Code § 801.
Aggravated sexual assault of child

This crime is a felony, punishable by imprisonment in the state prison for 15 years to life.

  1. Prosecution may be commenced at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: Cal. Penal Code § 269.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Cal. Penal Code § 799(a).
Incest

This crime is punishable by imprisonment in the state prison.

  1. Prosecution must bring a case against the perpetrator within 3 years after commission of the offense
  1. Citation for the crime: Cal. Penal Code § 285.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Cal. Penal Code § 801.
Sodomy

This crime is:

  1. punishable by imprisonment in the state prison or in a county jail for not more than 1 year if committed by any person upon a person under the age of 18;
  2. if committed by a person over the age of 21 upon a person under 16 years of age, a felony;
  3. punishable by imprisonment of 3, 6 or 8 years if the victim is under 14 years old and more than 10 years younger than perpetrator;
  4. punishable by imprisonment of 3, 6 or 8 years if accomplished by means of force, violence, etc.;
  5. punishable by imprisonment of 9, 11 or 13 years if the victim is under the age of 14 and the act is accomplished by means of force, violence, etc.; or if the victim is a minor over the age of 14, and the act is by means of force, violence, etc., then 7, 9 or 11 years.

Statute of Limitations:

  1. Prosecution for a felony offense described in Section 286 may be commenced at any time for crimes that were committed on or after January 1, 2017, and for crimes for which the statute of limitations that was in effect prior to January 1, 2017, has not run as of January 1, 2017;
  2. Prosecution for crimes that were committed on or after January 1, 2015, or for which the statute of limitations that was in effect prior to January 1, 2015, has not run as of January 1, 2015, and are alleged to have been committed when the victim was under 18 years of age, may be commenced any time prior to the victim’s 40th birthday;
  3. Prosecution of an offense punishable by imprisonment in the state prison must be commenced within 3 years after commission of the offense; or
  4. Prosecution must bring a case against the perpetrator within 6 years after commission of the offense, if offense is punishable by imprisonment for 8 years or more.
  1. Citation for the crime: Cal. Penal Code § 286.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Cal. Penal Code § SB 813, § 800, § 801 and § 801.1(a).
Lewd or lascivious acts involving children

If the victim is under 14, then this crime is punishable by imprisonment in the state prison for 3, 6 or 8 years; if committed with use of force, violence, etc., 5, 8 or 10 years; if committed by a caretaker upon a dependent by use of force, violence, etc., 5, 8 or 10 years; if the victim is 14 or 15 years old and the offender is at least 10 years older than the victim, punished by imprisonment in the state prison for 1, 2 or 3 years, or by imprisonment in country jail for not more than 1 year; if committed by a caretaker upon a dependent, punished by imprisonment in the state prison for 1, 2 or 3 years, or by imprisonment in a county jail for not more than 1 year.

  1. Prosecution for a felony offense described in subdivision (a) of Section 288 involving substantial sexual conduct as defined in subdivision (b) of Section 1203.066, subdivision (b) of Section 288, may be commenced at any time for crimes that were committed on or after January 1, 2017, and for crimes for which the statute of limitations that was in effect prior to January 1, 2017, has not run as of January 1, 2017;
  2. Prosecution for crimes that were committed on or after January 1, 2015, or for which the statute of limitations that was in effect prior to January 1, 2015, has not run as of January 1, 2015, and are alleged to have been committed when the victim was under 18 years of age, may be commenced any time prior to the victim’s 40th birthday;
  3. Prosecution of an offense punishable by imprisonment in the state prison must be commenced within 3 years after commission of the offense; or
  4. Prosecution must bring a case against the perpetrator within 6 years after commission of the offense, if the offense is punishable by imprisonment for 8 years or more.
  1. Citation for the crime: Cal. Penal Code § 288.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Cal. Penal Code § 799, § 800, § 801 and § 801.1(a).
Oral copulation

This crime, if the victim is under 18 years of age, is punishable by imprisonment in the state prison or in a county jail for not more than 1 year; if committed by a person over the age of 21 upon a person under 16 years of age, then such act is a felony; if the victim is under 14 and more than 10 years younger than the offender, punishable by imprisonment in the state prison for 3, 6 or 8 years; if committed against the victim’s will with use of force, violence, etc., 3, 6 or 8 years; if the victim is under 14 and the act is accomplished against the victim’s will by means of force, violence, etc., 8, 10 or 12 years; if the victim is a minor over the age of 14 and the act is accomplished by means of force, violence, etc., 6, 8 or 10 years.

  1. Prosecution for a felony offense described in paragraph (2) or (3) of subdivision (c) of, or subdivision (d), (f), (g), (i), or (k) of, Section 287 may be commenced at any time for crimes that were committed on or after January 1, 2017, and for crimes for which the statute of limitations that was in effect prior to January 1, 2017, has not run as of January 1, 2017;
  2. Prosecution for crimes that were committed on or after January 1, 2015, or for which the statute of limitations that was in effect prior to January 1, 2015, has not run as of January 1, 2015, and are alleged to have been committed when the victim was under 18 years of age, may be commenced any time prior to the victim's 40th birthday;
  3. Prosecution of an offense punishable by imprisonment in the state prison must be commenced within 3 years after commission of the offense; or
  4. Prosecution must bring a case against the perpetrator within 6 years after commission of the offense, if offense punishable by imprisonment for 8 years or more.
  1. Citation for the crime: Cal. Penal Code § 287.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Cal. Penal Code § 799, § 800, §801 and § 801.1(a).
Harmful matter sent with intent of seduction of minor

This crime is a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment in state prison or county jail for one year or a felony punished by imprisonment in state prison for 2, 4 or 5 years; if the matter sent does not include depictions of minors engaged in sexual conduct, punishment by imprisonment in state prison for 16 months, 2 or 3 years.

  1. Prosecution for an offense punishable by imprisonment in the state prison or pursuant to subdivision (h) of § 1170 must be commenced within 3 years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Cal. Penal Code § 288.2.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Cal. Penal Code § 801.
Contact of minor with intent to commit sexual offense

This crime is punishable by imprisonment in state prison for the length of time prescribed by the sexual offense statute that the perpetrator intended and attempted to commit. 

  1. The statute of limitations for this crime is analogous with the crime the perpetrator attempted to commit; unless the perpetrator has been found guilty of this crime before, in which case he or she shall be punished for 5 years imprisonment in addition to the number of years required for the crime he or she attempted to commit. If these additional five years result in a sentence longer than 8 years, then prosecution must be commenced within 6 years after commission of the offense. If the additional 5 years results in a sentence less than 8 years long, then prosecution must be commenced within 3 years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Cal. Penal Code § 288.3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Cal. Penal Code § 800 and §801.
Continuous sexual abuse of child

This crime (which requires three or more acts within a three-month period of substantial sexual conduct with a child under 14) is punishable by imprisonment in the state prison for 6, 12 or 16 years.

  1. Prosecution for a felony offense described in Section 288.5 may be commenced at any time for crimes that were committed on or after January 1, 2017, and for crimes for which the statute of limitations that was in effect prior to January 1, 2017, has not run as of January 1, 2017;
  2. Prosecution for crimes that were committed on or after January 1, 2015, or for which the statute of limitations that was in effect prior to January 1, 2015, has not run as of January 1, 2015, and are alleged to have been committed when the victim was under 18 years of age, may be commenced any time prior to the victim's 40th birthday.
  1. Citation for the crime: Cal. Penal Code § 288.5.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Cal. Penal Code § SB 799 and § 801.1(a).
Sexual acts with child 10 or younger

This crime is a felony, punishable by imprisonment in the state prison for 15 or 25 years to life.

  1. Prosecution for an offense punishable by death or by imprisonment in the state prison for life may be prosecuted at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: Cal. Penal Code § 288.7.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Cal. Penal Code § 799.
Forcible acts of sexual penetration

This crime is punishable by imprisonment in the state prison for 3, 6 or 8 years; if the victim is under 14 years of age, 8, 10 or 12 years; or if the victim is a minor over the age of 14, then 6, 8 or 10 years.

  1. Prosecution for a felony offense described in subdivision (a), (b), (d), (e), or (g) of Section 289 may be commenced at any time for crimes that were committed on or after January 1, 2017, and for crimes for which the statute of limitations that was in effect prior to January 1, 2017, has not run as of January 1, 2017;
  2. Prosecution for crimes that were committed on or after January 1, 2015, or for which the statute of limitations that was in effect prior to January 1, 2015, has not run as of January 1, 2015, and are alleged to have been committed when the victim was under 18 years of age, may be commenced any time prior to the victim’s 40th birthday; or
  3. Prosecution must bring a case against the perpetrator within 6 years after commission of the offense, if offense punishable by imprisonment for 8 years or more.

Any person who commits an act of sexual penetration, and the victim is at the time incapable, because of a mental disorder or developmental or physical disability, of giving legal consent, and this is known or reasonably should be known to the person committing the act or causing the act to be committed and both the defendant and the victim are at the time confined in a state hospital for the care and treatment of the mentally disordered or in any other public or private facility for the care and treatment of the mentally disordered approved by a county mental health director, shall be punished by imprisonment in the state prison, or in a county jail for a period of not more than 1 year.

  1. Prosecution for an offense punishable by imprisonment in the state prison must be commenced within 3 years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Cal. Penal Code § 289.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Cal. Penal Code § 799, § 800, § 801 and § 801.1(a).
Procurement of a child under 16 years for the purpose of lewd or lascivious acts

This crime is a felony punishable by imprisonment in state prison for 3, 6, or 8 years. 

  1. Prosecution for an offense punishable by imprisonment for 8 years or more must be commenced within 6 years after commission of the offense; or
  2. Prosecution for an offense punishable by imprisonment in the state prison must be commenced within 3 years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Cal. Penal Code § 266j.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Cal. Penal Code § 800 and § 801.
Contact of minor with intent to commit sexual offense

This crime is punishable by imprisonment not to exceed 1 year, unless perpetrator goes to the meeting place, in which case this crime is punishable by imprisonment for 2, 3, or 4 years. 

  1. Prosecution for an offense punishable by imprisonment in the state prison must be commenced within 3 years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Cal. Penal Code § 288.4.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Cal. Penal Code § 801.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?






Colorado What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Sexual assault

This crime is a:

  • Class 6 felony if, at the time of commission of the act, victim is at least 15 years of age but less than 17 years of age and actor is at least 10 years older than victim and not the spouse of the victim; 
  • Class 3 felony if the victim is physically helpless and the perpetrator knows the victim is physically helpless and the victim has not consented; if perpetrator causes submission of victim through the actual application of physical force or physical violence; if perpetrator causes submission of victim by threat of imminent death, serious bodily injury, extreme pain, or kidnapping, to be inflicted on anyone, and victim believes that actor has the present ability to execute these threats; if perpetrator causes submission of victim by threatening to retaliate in the future against victim or any other person, and victim reasonably believes that actor will execute this threat; or if perpetrator has substantially impaired victim’s power to appraise or control victim’s conduct by employing, without victim’s consent, any drug, intoxicant, or other means for the purpose of causing submission; 
  • Class 2 felony if perpetrator is physically aided or abetted by one or more other persons; if victim suffers serious bodily injury; or if perpetrator is armed with a deadly weapon or an article used or fashioned in a manner to cause a person to reasonably believe that the article is a deadly weapon, or represents verbally or otherwise that the actor is armed with a deadly weapon and uses the deadly weapon, article, or representation to cause submission of the victim; or
  • Other than as described above, this crime is a Class 4 felony.

The statute of limitations depends on a number of circumstances.

  1. No limit for any attempt, conspiracy, or solicitation to commit a sex offense against a child (an unlawful sexual offense, as defined in § 18-3-411(1), that is a felony), which includes sexual assault against a child under 15; 
  2. If a felony and paragraph (1) above does not apply, within twenty years after commission of the offense; or
  3. If a felony and victim were under 18 at the time of the commission of the offense, within 20 years after such victim reaches the age of 18.
  1. Citation for the crime: Colo. rev. Stat. § 18-3-402.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Colo. rev. Stat. § 16-5-401(1)(a), § 16-5-401(8)(a), § 16-5-401(8)(a.3), §18-3-411(2), and 16-5-401(8)(a.7).
Unlawful sexual contact

This crime is a Class 4 felony if (i) offender compels victim to submit by use of force, intimidation, or threat, (ii) offender engages in treatment or examination of a victim for other than bona fide medical purposes, or (iii) offender with or without sexual contact, induces or coerces a child to expose intimate parts or to engage in any sexual contact, intrusion or penetration with another person for the purpose of the actor’s own sexual gratification. Otherwise, this crime is a Class 1 misdemeanor.  For purposes of (iii) above, the term “child” means any person under the age of 18 years. 

  1. No limit for any attempt, conspiracy, or solicitation to commit a sex offense against a child (an unlawful sexual offense, as defined in § 18-3-411(1), that is a felony), which includes unlawful sexual contact with a child under 15;
  2. If a felony and paragraph (1) above does not apply, within 10 years after commission of the offense;
  3. If a felony and victim was under 18 at the time of the commission of the offense, within 10 years after such victim reaches the age of 18;
  4. If a misdemeanor, within five years after the commission of the offense; or
  5. If a misdemeanor and committed against a child under 15, the period of time for which a person may be prosecuted is extended for an additional 3 years and 6 months.
  1. Citation for the crime: Colo. rev. Stat. § 18-3-404.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Colo. rev. Stat. § 16-5-401(1)(a), § 16-5-401(6), § 16-5-401(8)(a.3), § 16-5-401(9), § 16-5-401(7) and §18-3-411(2).
Sexual assault on a child

This crime is a Class 3 felony if:

  • Actor applies force against victim in order to accomplish or facilitate sexual contact;
  • Actor, in order to accomplish or facilitate sexual contact, threatens imminent death, serious bodily injury, extreme pain, or kidnapping against victim or another person, and victim believes that the actor has the present ability to execute the threat;
  • Actor, in order to accomplish or facilitate sexual contact, threatens retaliation by causing in the future the death or serious bodily injury, extreme pain, or kidnapping against victim or another person, and victim believes that actor will execute the threat; or
  • Actor commits offense as part of a pattern of sexual abuse.

Otherwise, the crime is a Class 4 felony.

  1. No limit for any attempt, conspiracy, or solicitation to commit a sex offense against a child (an unlawful sexual offense, as defined in § 18-3-411(1), that is a felony), which includes sexual assault on a child.
  1. Citation for the crime: Colo. rev. Stat. § 18-3-405.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Colo. rev. Stat. § 16-5-401(1)(a).
Sexual assault on a child by one in a position of trust

This crime is a Class 3 felony if victim is under 15 or the offense is committed as part of a pattern of sexual abuse. This crime is a Class 4 felony if the victim is 15 or older but less than 18 and the offense is not committed as a pattern of sexual abuse.

  1. No limit for any attempt, conspiracy, or solicitation to commit a sex offense against a child (an unlawful sexual offense, as defined in § 18-3-411(1), that is a felony), which includes sexual assault on a child by one in a position of trust.
  1. Citation for the crime: Colo. rev. Stat. § 18-3-405.3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Colo. rev. Stat. § 16-5-401(1)(a).
Internet sexual exploitation of a child

This crime is a Class 4 felony.

  1. No limit for any attempt, conspiracy, or solicitation to commit a sex offense against a child (an unlawful sexual offense, as defined in § 18-3-411(1), that is a felony), which includes internet sexual exploitation of a child.
  1. Citation for the crime: Colo. rev. Stat. § 18-3-405.4.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Colo. rev. Stat. § 16-5-401(1)(a).
Sexual assault on a client by a psychotherapist

This crime is a Class 1 misdemeanor if it is sexual assault, which involves sexual contact. This crime is a Class 4 felony if it is aggravated sexual assault, which involves sexual penetration or sexual intrusion.

  1. If a felony, within 3 years after the commission of the offense; or
  2. If a misdemeanor, within 18 months.
  1. Citation for the crime: Colo. rev. Stat. § 18-3-405.5.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Colo. rev. Stat. § 16-5-401(1)(a).
Incest

This crime is a Class 4 felony.

  1. Within 3 years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Colo. rev. Stat. § 18-6-301.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Colo. rev. Stat. § 16-5-401(1)(a).
Aggravated incest

This crime is a Class 3 felony.

  1. No limit for any attempt, conspiracy, or solicitation to commit a sex offense against a child (an unlawful sexual offense, as defined in § 18-3-411(1), that is a felony), which includes aggravated incest; or
  2. If the victim is not a child, 3 years.
  1. Citation for the crime: Colo. rev. Stat. § 18-6-302.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Colo. rev. Stat. § 16-5-401(1)(a).
Sexual exploitation of a child

This crime is generally a Class 3 felony. If it involves sexually exploitative material accessed with intent to view, viewed, possessed or controlled, it is a Class 5 felony, except if it involves a second or subsequent offense or possession of video, video tape, or motion picture, in which case it is a Class 4 felony.

  1. No limit for any attempt, conspiracy, or solicitation to commit a sex offense against a child (an unlawful sexual offense, as defined in § 18-3-411(1), that is a felony), which includes sexual exploitation of a child.
  1. Citation for the crime: Colo. rev. Stat. § 18-6-403.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Colo. rev. Stat. § 16-5-401(1)(a).
Procurement of a child for sexual exploitation

This crime is a Class 3 felony.

  1. No limit for any attempt, conspiracy, or solicitation to commit a sex offense against a child (an unlawful sexual offense, as defined in § 18-3-411(1), that is a felony), which includes procurement of a child for sexual exploitation.
  1. Citation for the crime: Colo. rev. Stat. § 18-6-404.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Colo. rev. Stat. § 16-5-401(1)(a).
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?






Connecticut What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Sexual assault, first degree

This crime is a Class A felony if victim is under 16 and perpetrator uses force or threatens force, or if victim is under 13 and perpetrator is more than two years older than victim. Otherwise, this crime is a Class B felony.

  1. No statute of limitations for Class A felonies or any other offense involving sexual abuse, sexual exploitation or sexual assault if the victim of the offense was a minor at the time of the offense; or
  2. If Class B felony, within twenty years after the commission of the offense; or
  3. If the victim is 18, 19, or 20 years old, within thirty years after the commission of the offense; or
  4. No statute of limitations provided that (1) the victim notified any police officer or state's attorney acting in such police officer's or state's attorney's official capacity of the commission of the offense not later than five years after the commission of the offense, and (2) the identity of the person who allegedly committed the offense has been established through a DNA profile comparison using evidence collected at the time of the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-70.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Conn. Gen. Stat. § 54-193, and § 54-193b.
Aggravated sexual assault, first degree

This crime is a Class A felony if victim is under 16. Otherwise, this crime is a Class B felony. 

  1. No statute of limitations for Class A felonies or any other offense involving sexual abuse, sexual exploitation or sexual assault if the victim of the offense was a minor at the time of the offense; or
  2. If Class B felony, within twenty years after the commission of the offense; or
  3. If the victim is 18, 19, or 20 years old, within thirty years after the commission of the offense; or
  4. No statute of limitations provided that (1) the victim notified any police officer or state's attorney acting in such police officer's or state's attorney's official capacity of the commission of the offense not later than five years after the commission of the offense, and (2) the identity of the person who allegedly committed the offense has been established through a DNA profile comparison using evidence collected at the time of the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-70a,
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Conn. Gen. Stat. § 54-193, § 54-193b.
Sexual assault in the spousal or cohabiting relationship
  1. This crime was repealed effective as of October 1, 2019.
  1. This crime was repealed effective as of October 1, 2019.
Aggravated sexual assault of a minor

This crime is a Class A felony.

  1. No statute of limitations for Class A felonies.
  1. Citation for the crime: Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-70c.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Conn. Gen. Stat. § 54-193.
Sexual assault, second degree

This crime is a Class B felony if the victim is under 16. Otherwise, this crime is a Class C felony.

  1. No statute of limitations if the victim of the offense was a minor at the time of the offense; or
  2. If the victim was over 20 years old, within twenty years after the commission of the offense; or
  3. If the victim is 18, 19, or 20 years old, within thirty years after the commission of the offense; or
  4. No statute of limitations provided that (1) the victim notified any police officer or state's attorney acting in such police officer's or state's attorney's official capacity of the commission of the offense not later than five years after the commission of the offense, and (2) the identity of the person who allegedly committed the offense has been established through a DNA profile comparison using evidence collected at the time of the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-71.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Conn. Gen. Stat. § 54-193 and § 54-193b.
Sexual assault, third degree

This crime is a Class C felony if victim is under 16. Otherwise, this crime is a Class D felony. 

  1. No statute of limitations if the victim of the offense was a minor at the time of the offense; or
  2. If the victim was over 20 years old, within twenty years after the commission of the offense; or
  3. If the victim is 18, 19, or 20 years old, within thirty years after the commission of the offense; or
  4. No statute of limitations provided that (1) the victim notified any police officer or state's attorney acting in such police officer's or state's attorney's official capacity of the commission of the offense not later than five years after the commission of the offense, and (2) the identity of the person who allegedly committed the offense has been established through a DNA profile comparison using evidence collected at the time of the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-72a.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Conn. Gen. Stat. § 54-193 and § 54-193b.
Sexual assault, third degree with a firearm

This crime is a Class B felony if victim is under 16. Otherwise, this crime is a Class C felony.

  1. No statute of limitations if the victim of the offense was a minor at the time of the offense; or
  2. If the victim was over 20 years old, within twenty years after the commission of the offense; or
  3. If the victim is 18, 19, or 20 years old, within thirty years after the commission of the offense; or
  4. No statute of limitations provided that (1) the victim notified any police officer or state's attorney acting in such police officer's or state's attorney's official capacity of the commission of the offense not later than five years after the commission of the offense, and (2) the identity of the person who allegedly committed the offense has been established through a DNA profile comparison using evidence collected at the time of the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-72b.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Conn. Gen. Stat. § 54-193 and § 54-193b.
Sexual assault, fourth degree

This crime is a Class D felony if victim is under 16. Otherwise, this crime is a Class A misdemeanor. 

  1. No statute of limitations if the victim of the offense was a minor at the time of the offense; or
  2. If the victim was over 20 years old, within twenty years after the commission of the offense; or
  3. If the victim is 18, 19, or 20 years old, within thirty years after the victim turns 21; or
  4. If a class A misdemeanor, if the victim was more than 21 years old, within ten years.
  1. Citation for the crime: Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-73a.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Conn. Gen. Stat. § 54-193.
Incest

This crime is a Class D felony.

  1. No statute of limitations for any offense involving sexual abuse, sexual exploitation or sexual assault if the victim of the offense was a minor at the time of the offense; or
  2. If the offense involved sexual abuse, sexual exploitation or sexual assault of a victim is 18, 19, or 20 years old, within thirty years after the victim turns 21; or
  3. Prosecution must otherwise bring a case within five years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-191.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Conn. Gen. Stat. § 54-193.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?






Delaware What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Incest

This crime is a Class A misdemeanor.

  1. For any Class A misdemeanor, within three years after commission of the offense; or 
  2. No statute of limitations for this crime if the prosecution is not based solely on the memory of the victim that has been recovered through psychotherapy without independent evidence.
  1. Citation for the crime: Del. Code tit. 11, § 766.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Del. Code Ann. tit. 11, § 205(b)(2) and (e).
Unlawful sexual contact, third degree

This crime is a Class A misdemeanor.

  1. For any Class A misdemeanor, within three years after commission of the offense; or 
  2. No statute of limitations for this crime if the prosecution is not based solely on the memory of the victim that has been recovered through psychotherapy without independent evidence.
  1. Citation for the crime: Del. Code tit. 11, § 767.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Del. Code Ann. tit. 11, § 205(b)(2) and (e).
Unlawful sexual contact, second degree

This crime is a Class F felony.

  1. For any felony other than murder, within five years after commission of the offense; or 
  2. No statute of limitations for this crime if the prosecution is not based solely on the memory of the victim that has been recovered through psychotherapy without independent evidence.
  1. Citation for the crime: Del. Code tit. 11, § 768.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Del. Code Ann. tit. 11, § 205(b)(1) and (e).
Unlawful sexual contact, first degree

This crime is a Class D felony.

  1. For any felony other than murder, within five years after commission of the offense; or
  2. No statute of limitations for this crime if the prosecution is not based solely on the memory of the victim that has been recovered through psychotherapy without independent evidence.
  1. Citation for the crime: Del. Code tit. 11, § 769
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Del. Code Ann. tit. 11, § 205(b)(1) and (e).
Rape, fourth degree

This crime is a Class C felony.

  1. For any felony other than murder, within five years after commission of the offense; or 
  2. No statute of limitations for this crime if the prosecution is not based solely on the memory of the victim that has been recovered through psychotherapy without independent evidence.
  1. Citation for the crime: Del. Code tit. 11, § 770
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Del. Code Ann. tit. 11, § 205(b)(1) and (e).
Rape, third degree

This crime is a Class B felony.

  1. For any felony other than murder, within five years after commission of the offense; or 
  2. No statute of limitations for this crime if the prosecution is not based solely on the memory of the victim that has been recovered through psychotherapy without independent evidence.
  1. Citation for the crime: Del. Code tit. 11, § 771
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Del. Code Ann. tit. 11, § 205(b)(1) and (e).
Rape, second degree

This crime is a Class B felony.

  1. For any felony other than murder, within five years after commission of the offense; or 
  2. No statute of limitations for this crime if the prosecution is not based solely on the memory of the victim that has been recovered through psychotherapy without independent evidence.
  1. Citation for the crime: Del. Code tit. 11, § 772
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Del. Code Ann. tit. 11, § 205(b)(1) and (e).
Rape, first degree

This crime is a Class A felony.

  1. No statute of limitations for Class A felonies or any attempt to commit Class A felonies.
  1. Citation for the crime: Del. Code tit. 11, § 773.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Del. Code Ann. tit. 11, § 205(a).
Sexual extortion

This crime is a Class E felony.

  1. For any felony other than murder, within five years after commission of the offense; or 
  2. No statute of limitations for this crime if the prosecution is not based solely on the memory of the victim that has been recovered through psychotherapy without independent evidence.
  1. Citation for the crime: Del. Code tit. 11, § 774.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Del. Code Ann. tit. 11, § 205(b)(1) and (e).
Continuous sexual abuse of a child

This crime is a Class B felony.

  1. For any felony other than murder, within five years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Del. Code tit. 11, § 776.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Del. Code Ann. tit. 11, § 205(b)(1) and (e).
Dangerous crime against a child under 14

This crime is a Class B felony. For a second offense, life in prison is a possibility.

  1. For any felony other than murder, within five years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Del. Code tit. 11, § 777.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Del. Code Ann. tit. 11, § 205(b)(1) and (e).
Unlawful sexual conduct against a child, by a sex offender

This crime is classified depending on the classification of the underlying crime which originally required the sex offender to register:

  • If the underlying crime was a misdemeanor, then this crime, unlawful sexual conduct against a child by a sex offender, is a Class G felony, unless child is less than 12 or is less than 18 and has a cognitive disability, then this crime is a Class C felony; or
  • If underlying crime was a Class C, D, E, F, or G felony, then this crime is one felony higher than the underlying offense, unless child is less than 12 or is less than 18 and has a cognitive disability, then this crime is a Class B felony; or
  • If the underlying crime was a Class A or B felony, then same felony grade with doubled minimum sentence of imprisonment.

The statute of limitations depends on the classification of the crime, explained above.

  1. No statute of limitations for Class A felonies or any attempt to commit Class A felonies; or
  2. For other felonies, within five years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Del. Code Ann. tit. 11, § 777a.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Del. Code Ann. tit. 11, § 205(b)(1).
Sexual abuse of a child by a person in a position of trust, authority or supervision in the first degree

This crime is classified depending upon the age of the victim.

  1. If victim is less than 16 years of age and sexual intercourse, then Class A felony; or
  2. If victim is less than 16 years of age and sexual penetration, then Class B felony; or
  3. If victim is between 16 and 18 years of age and perpetrator is at least four years older than the child, then Class B felony; or
  4. If victim is between 16 and 18 years of age, then Class C felony; or
  5. If sexual extortion of a victim less than 16 years of age, then Class D felony.

The statute of limitations depends on the classification of the crime, explained above.

  1. No statute of limitations for Class A felonies or any attempt to commit Class A felonies; or
  2. For other felonies, within five years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Del. Code Ann. tit. 11, § 778.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Del. Code Ann. tit. 11, § 205(b)(1).
Sexual abuse of a child by a person in a position of trust, authority or supervision in the second degree

This crime is classified depending upon the age of the victim.

  1. If sexual contact with victim less than 16 years of age or forces victim less than 16 years of age to have sexual contact with a third person, then Class D felony; or
  2. If perpetrator is at least 4 years older than victim under the age of 16 and exposes his or her private areas, then Class F felony; or
  3. If perpetrator is at least 4 years older than victim under the age of 16 and attempts to induce victim to engage in sexual contact or sexual intercourse, then Class G felony.

The statute of limitations for this crime (as for other non-Class A felonies) is within five years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Del. Code Ann. tit. 11, § 778a.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Del. Code Ann. tit. 11, § 205(b)(1).
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?






District of Columbia What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Incest
  1. Prosecution may be commenced at any time. 
  1. Citation for the crime: D.C. Code § 22-1901.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: D.C. Code § 23-113(a)(1)(U). 
Sexual abuse, first degree
  1. Prosecution may be commenced at any time. 
  1. Citation for the crime: D.C. Code § 22-3002.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: D.C. Code § 23-113(a)(1)(G).
Sexual abuse, second degree
  1. Prosecution may be commenced at any time. 
  1. Citation for the crime: D.C. Code § 22-3003.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: D.C. Code § 23-113(a)(1)(H).
Sexual abuse, third degree
  1. Prosecution may be commenced at any time. 
  1. Citation for the crime: D.C. Code § 22-3004.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: D.C. Code § 23-113(a)(1)(I).
Sexual abuse, fourth degree
  1. Prosecution may be commenced at any time
  1. Citation for the crime: D.C. Code § 22-3005.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: D.C. Code § 23-113(a)(1)(J).
Misdemeanor sexual abuse
  1. Prosecution must commence within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: D.C. Code § 22-3006.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: D.C. Code § 23-113(a)(5).
Child sexual abuse, first degree
  1. Prosecution may be commenced at any time. 
  1. Citation for the crime: D.C. Code § 22-3008.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: D.C. Code § 23-113(a)(1)(K).
Child sexual abuse, second degree
  1. Prosecution may be commenced at any time. 
  1. Citation for the crime: D.C. Code § 22-3009.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: D.C. Code § 23-113(a)(1)(L).
Sexual abuse of a minor, first degree
  1. Prosecution may be commenced at any time. 
  1. Citation for the crime: D.C. Code § 22-3009.01.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: D.C. Code § 23-113(a)(1)(M).
Sexual abuse of a minor, second degree
  1. Prosecution may be commenced at any time. 
  1. Citation for the crime: D.C. Code § 22-3009.02.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: D.C. Code § 23-113(a)(1)(N).
Misdemeanor sexual abuse of a child or minor
  1. Prosecution must commence within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: D.C. Code § 22-3010.01.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: D.C. Code § 23-113(a)(5).
Sexual abuse of a ward, patient, client, or prisoner, first degree
  1. Prosecution may be commenced at any time. 
  1. Citation for the crime: D.C. Code § 22-3013.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: D.C. Code § 23-113(a)(1)(Q).
Sexual abuse of a ward, patient, client, or prisoner, second degree
  1. Prosecution may be commenced at any time. 
  1. Citation for the crime: D.C. Code § 22-3014.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: D.C. Code § 23-113(a)(1)(R).
Sexual abuse of a patient or client, first degree
  1. Prosecution may be commenced at any time. 
  1. Citation for the crime: D.C. Code § 22-3015.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: D.C. Code § 23-113(a)(1)(S).
Sexual abuse of a patient or client, second degree
  1. Prosecution may be commenced at any time. 
  1. Citation for the crime: D.C. Code § 22-3016.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: D.C. Code § 23-113(a)(1)(T).
Abducting or enticing a child from the home for purposes of prostitution
  1. Prosecution must commence within 10 years after commission of the offense.
  2. This time does not begin to run until victim reaches 21.
  1. Citation for the crime: D.C. Code § 22-2704.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: D.C. Code § 23-113(a)(3)(K) and (d)(2)(G).
Pandering, or inducing, or compelling individual to engage in prostitution
  1. Prosecution must commence within 10 years after commission of the offense.
  2. This time does not begin to run until victim reaches 21.
  1. Citation for the crime: D.C. Code § 22-2705.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: D.C. Code § 23-113(a)(3)(L) and (d)(2)(H).
Compelling an individual to live a life of prostitution against their will
  1. Prosecution must commence within 10 years after commission of the offense.
  2. If the victim was a minor at the time of the offense, this time does not begin to run until victim reaches 21.
  1. Citation for the crime: D.C. Code § 22-2706.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: D.C. Code § 23-113(a)(3)(M) and (d)(2)(I).
Enticing a child for the purpose of committing felony sexual abuse
  1. Prosecution must commence within 10 years after commission of the offense.
  2. This time does not begin to run until victim reaches 21.
  1. Citation for the crime: D.C. Code § 22-3010.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: D.C. Code § 23-113(a)(3)(C) and (d)(2)(C).
Sexual abuse of a secondary education student, first degree
  1. Prosecution may be commenced at any time. 
  1. Citation for the crime: D.C. Code § 22-3009.03.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: D.C. Code § 23-113(a)(1)(O).
Sexual abuse of a secondary education student, second degree
  1. Prosecution may be commenced at any time. 
  1. Citation for the crime: D.C. Code § 22-3009.04.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: D.C. Code § 23-113(a)(1)(P).    
Causing spouse or domestic partner to live in prostitution
  1. Prosecution must commence within 10 years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: D.C. Code § 22-2708.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: D.C. Code § 23-113(a)(3)(N).    
Arranging for sexual contact with a real or fictitious child
  1. Prosecution must commence within six years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: D.C. Code § 22-3010.02.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: D.C. Code § 23-113(a)(4).   
Trafficking in labor or commercial sex acts
  1. Prosecution must commence within 10 years after commission of the offense.
  2. If the victim was a minor at the time of the offense, this time does not begin to run until the victim reaches 21.
  1. Citation for the crime: D.C. Code § 22-1833.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: D.C. Code § 23-113(a)(3)(J) and (d)(2)(J).    
Sex trafficking of children
  1. Prosecution must commence within 10 years after commission of the offense.
  2. If the victim was a minor at the time of the offense, this time does not begin to run until the victim reaches 21.
  1. Citation for the crime: D.C. Code § 22-1834.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: D.C. Code § 23-113(a)(3)(J) and (d)(2)(J).      
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?
Using a minor in a sexual performance or promoting sexual performance by a minor
  1. Prosecution must commence within 10 years after commission of the offense.
  2. This time does not begin to run until the victim reaches 21.
  1. Citation for the crime:  D.C. Code § 22-3102.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations:  D.C. Code §§ 23-113(a)(3)(H), (d)(2)(D).    






Florida What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Selling or buying minors

The statute of limitations depends on the specifics of the acts committed:

  1. For a capital felony, life felony, or a felony that resulted in death, there is no time limitation;
  2. For a felony of the first degree, prosecution must commence within four years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Fla. Stat. § 847.0145.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Fla. Stat. §§ 775.15(1)–(2).
Female genital mutilation

The statute of limitations depends on the specifics of the acts committed and the relative ages of the offender and victim, as outlined below:

As used in this section, the term “female genital mutilation” means the circumcising, excising, or infibulating, in whole or in part, the labia majora, labia minora, or clitoris of a female person

  1. Felony of the first degree if offender knowingly commits, or attempts to commit, female genital mutilation upon a female person younger than 18 years of age
  2. Felony of the second degree if offender knowingly removes, or causes or permits the removal of, a female person younger than 18 years of age from this state for purposes of committing female genital mutilation commits a.
  3. Felony of the third degree if offender is a parent, a guardian, or in a position of familial or custodial authority to a female person younger than 18 years of age and who knowingly consents to or permits the female genital mutilation of that female person. 

The statute of limitations is as follows:

  1. No limitation for a felony that resulted in death.
  2. For a felony of the first degree, prosecution must commence within four years after commission of the offense;
  3. For any other felony, prosecution must commence within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Fla. Stat. § 794.08.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Fla. Stat. §§ 775.15(1)–(2).
Sexting

The statute of limitation depends on the specifics of the acts committed and the relative ages of the offender and victim, as outlined below: 

If a minor uses a computer or any other device capable of electronic data transmission or distribution, to transmit or distribute to another minor any photograph or video of any person which depicts nudity,  and is harmful to minors; or possesses a photograph or video of any person that was transmitted or distributed by another minor which depicts nudity, and is harmful to minors.

  1. Noncriminal violation for a first violation and must sign and accept a citation to appear before the juvenile court.
  2. Misdemeanor of the first degree for a violation that occurs after the minor has been found to have committed a noncriminal violation for sexting.
  3. Felony of the third degree for a violation that occurs after a minor has been found to have committed a misdemeanor of the first degree for texting.

The statute of limitation is as follows:

  1. A prosecution for a noncriminal violation must commence within 1 year after commission of the offense.
  2. A prosecution for a misdemeanor of the first degree must commence within 2 years after commission of the offense.
  3. A prosecution for a felony of the first degree must commence within 3 years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Fla. Stat. § 847.0141
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Fla. Stat. § 775.15(2)(b), (c), and (d).
Sexual battery

The statute of limitations depends on the specifics of the acts committed and the relative ages of the offender and victim, as outlined below. 

  1. Capital felony if offender is at least 18 and commits sexual battery upon, or in an attempt to commit sexual battery injures the sexual organs of, victim under 12;
  2. Life felony if offender under 18 commits sexual battery upon, or in an attempt to commit sexual battery injures the sexual organs of, victim under 12;
  3. Life felony if offender commits sexual battery upon a victim at least 12, without that person’s consent, and in the process thereof uses or threatens to use a deadly weapon or uses actual physical force likely to cause serious personal injury;
  4. Felony of the first degree if offender commits sexual battery upon a victim, at least 12, without the victim’s consent, under any of the following circumstances:
    • Victim is physically helpless to resist;
    • Offender coerces submission by threatening to use force or violence likely to cause serious personal injury on the victim, and the victim reasonably believes that the offender has the present ability to execute the threat;
    • Offender coerces submission by threatening to retaliate against the victim or a third person, and the victim reasonably believes that the offender has the present ability to execute the threat in the future;
    • Offender, without the prior knowledge or consent of the victim, administers or has knowledge of someone else administering to the victim any narcotic, anesthetic, or other intoxicating substance which mentally or physically incapacitates victim;
    • Victim is mentally defective and offender knows or has reason to know;
    • Victim is physically incapacitated; or
    • Offender is a law enforcement officer, correctional officer, correctional probation officer, or other person in a position of control or authority in a controlled setting and such person is acting in a manner as to lead the victim to reasonably believe that the offender is in a position of control authority as an agent or employee of government.
  5. Felony of the first degree if offender 18 or older commits sexual battery upon a person 12 years of age or older, but younger than 18, without that person’s consent, without using physical force and violence likely to cause serious personal injury;
  6. Felony of the second degree if offender 18 or older commits sexual battery upon a person 18 or older without that person’s consent, without using physical force and violence likely to cause serious personal injury;
  7. Felony of the second degree if offender younger than 18 commits sexual battery upon a person 12 years of age or older, without that person’s consent, without using physical force and violence likely to cause serious personal injury; or
  8. See statute (Fla. Stat. § 794.011) for other classifications of sexual battery and aggravating factors that may increase the nature of the crime and the statute of limitations in certain circumstances. 

The statute of limitations is as follows:

  1. For a capital felony, life felony, or a felony that resulted in death, there is no time limitation;

The statue of limitations for offenses committed before July 1,2020, is as follows:

  1. For a felony of the first degree, prosecution must commence within four years after commission of the offense;
  2. For any other felony, prosecution must commence within three years after commission of the offense;
  3. There is no time limitation for any sexual battery violation committed against a victim under 16 at the time of the act.
  4. There is no time limitation for any first degree sexual battery offense committed against a victim under 18 at the time of the act;
  5. There is no time limitation if the offense is a first or second degree felony committed against a victim 16 or older, and the offense is reported within 72 hours after its commission;
  6. If the victim was under 18, the time does not begin to run until the earlier of the victim reaching 18 or the offense being reported to law enforcement; however, there is no limitations period for a first or second degree sexual battery felony on a victim under 18 if the crime was reported within 72 hours after it was committed.

The statute of limitations for offenses committed on or after July 1, 2020, is as follows:

  1. For any sexual battery violation committed on or after July 1, 2020, against a victim under 18 at the time of the act, there is no time limitation
  1. Citation for the crime: Fla. Stat. § 794.011.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Fla. Stat. §§ 95.11(9), 775.15.
Sexual battery by multiple perpetrators

This crime is classified as follows:

  1. A sexual battery that would be a felony of the second degree becomes a felony of the first degree if there were multiple perpetrators; or
  2. A sexual battery that would be a felony of the first degree becomes a life felony if there were multiple perpetrators.

Once an act of sexual battery is reclassified as a sexual battery committed by more than one person, there is no Statute of Limitation for these crimes. 
  1. Citation for the crime: Fla. Stat. § 794.023 and § 794.011.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Fla. Stat. § 775.15
Unlawful sexual activity with certain minors

This crime is a second degree felony.

  1. Prosecution must commence within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Fla. Stat. § 794.05, as amended or modified by 2022 Bill Text FL S.B. 692.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Fla. Stat. § 775.15(2)(b).
Lewd or lascivious offenses committed on or in the presence of persons under 16

The statute of limitations depends on the specifics of the acts committed and the relative ages of the offender and victim, as outlined below: 

1. Lewd or lascivious battery

  • Felony of the second degree if the offender engages in sexual activity with a victim at least 12 but under 16, or encourages, forces, or entices a victim under 16 to engage in sadomasochistic abuse, sexual bestiality, prostitution, or any other sexual activity as defined by the law; but it is a 
  • Felony of the first degree if the offender is at least 18 and has been previously convicted of a prior felony,  kidnapping, kidnapping of a child under 13, aggravating circumstances; false imprisonment, false imprisonment of a child under 13, aggravating circumstances; sexual battery under Chapter 794, through a lewd act under this section or by certain computer transmissions prohibited under § 847.0135(5), or of lewd or lascivious offenses committed upon or in the presence of an elderly person or disabled person, computer pornography, or under this section. 

2. Lewd or lascivious molestation

If the offender intentionally touches in a lewd or lascivious manner a person’s breasts, genitals, genital area, or buttocks, or the clothing over them, is a:

  • Life felony if offender is at least 18 and the victim under 12;  
  • Felony of the first degree if offender is at least 18 and has been previously convicted of a prior felony; kidnapping, kidnapping of a child under 13, aggravating circumstances; false imprisonment, false imprisonment of a child under 13, aggravating circumstances; sexual battery under Chapter 794, through a lewd act under this section or certain computer transmissions prohibited under § 847.0135(5), lewd or lascivious offenses committed upon or in the presence of an elderly person or disabled person; computer pornography, or under this section;
  • Felony of the second degree if offender is under 18 and the victim is under 12, or if offender is at least 18 and victim is at least 12 but under 16; or
  • Felony of the third degree if offender is under 18 and the victim is at least 12 but under 16.

3. Lewd or lascivious conduct 

If the offender intentionally touches a person under 16 years of age in a lewd or lascivious manner; or solicits a person under 16 years of age to commit lewd or lascivious conduct, is a:

  • Felony of the second degree if offender 18 or older and the victim is under 16; or
  • Felony of the third degree if offender less than 18 and the victim is under 16.

4. Lewd or lascivious exhibition

If the offender intentionally masturbates, exposes the genitals in a lewd or lascivious manner, or commits any sexual act that does not involve actual physical or sexual conduct with a child that is under 16 years, is a: 

  • Felony of the second degree if offender 18 or older commits a lewd or lascivious exhibition; or
  • Felony of the third degree if offender less than 18 commits a lewd or lascivious exhibition

The statute of limitations is as follows:

  1. No limitation for a capital felony, life felony, or a felony that resulted in death;
  2. No limitation for Lewd or Lascivious Battery or Molestation under Fla. Stat. § 800.04(4) or (5), if committed against a victim under 16, unless the offender was under 18 and no more than one year older than the victim;
  3. For a felony of the first degree, prosecution must commence within four years after commission of the act;
  4. For a second or third degree felony offenses, the time limitation is three years after commission of the act;
  5. If the victim was under 18 at the time the act, the time does not begin to run until victim has reached 18 or the offense is reported to law enforcement, whichever occurs first.
  1. Citation for the crime: Fla. Stat. § 800.04.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Fla. Stat. § 775.15(1)-(2).
Lewd or lascivious offenses committed on or in the presence of an elderly person or disabled person

This crime is a felony of the second degree.

  1. Prosecution must commence within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Fla. Stat. § 825.1025, as amended or modified by 2022 Bill Text FL S.B. 692.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Fla. Stat. § 775.15(2)(b). 
Incest

This crime is a felony of the third degree. 

  1. Prosecution must commence within three years after commission of the offense; but
  2. If the victim was under 18 at the time the offense was committed, the time does not begin to run until victim has reached 18 or the offense is reported to law enforcement, whichever occurs first.
  1. Citation for the crime: Fla. Stat. § 826.04.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Fla. Stat. §§ 775.15(2)(b) and (13)(a).
Computer pornography/prohibited computer usage/traveling to meet minors

The statute of limitations depends on the specifics of the acts committed and the relative ages of the offender and victim, as outlined below: 

1. Computer Pornography  

Felony of the third degree if a person knowingly uses a computer or any computerized device to buy, sell, receive, exchange, or disseminate, any notice, statement, or advertisement of any minor’s name, telephone number, place of residence, physical characteristics, or other descriptive or identifying information for purposes of facilitating, encouraging, offering, or soliciting sexual conduct of or with any minor, or the visual depiction of such conduct.

2. Certain ues of computer services or devices prohibited 

  • Felony of the third degree if a person knowingly uses a computer online service or a device capable of electronic data storage or transmission to seduce, solicit, lure, or entice a child or a person believed to be a child to engage in unlawful sexual conduct, or attempt to gain consent from a guardian of a child for the child to engage in such conduct; but it is a
  • Felony of the second degree if a person commits this offense by misrepresenting his or her age.

3. Traveling to meet a minor

Felony of the second degree if a person travels any distance to attempt to engage in unlawful sexual conduct with a child or a person believed to be a child after using a computer online service, internet service, local bulletin board service or any device capable of electronic data storage or transmission to seduce, solicit, lure, or entice a person believed to be a child to engage in unlawful sexual conduct, or attempt to gain consent from a guardian of a child for the child to engage in such conduct.

4. Certain uses of computer services or devices prohibited 

  • Felony of the third degree if a person intentionally commits a lewd or lascivious exhibition using a computer, but it is a
  • Felony of the second degree if the offender is 18 or older when committing the offense.

The statute of limitations is as follows:

  1. For a felony of the first degree, prosecution must commence within four years after commission of the offense;
  2. For any other felony, prosecution must commence within three years after commission of the offense.
  3. For certain computer actions prohibited by Fla. Stat. § 847.1035(5), if the victim was under 18 at the time the offense was committed, the time does not begin to run until victim has reached 18 or the offense is reported to law enforcement, whichever occurs first.
  1. Citation for the crime: Fla. Stat. § 847.0135.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Fla. Stat. §§ 775.15(2)(a)–(b) and (13)(a).
Human trafficking

There is no time limitation for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Fla. Stat. § 787.06.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Fla. Stat. § 775.15(19).
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?






Georgia What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Female Genital Mutilation
  1. Prosecution must commence within seven years after the commission of the crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ga. Code § 16-5-27.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ga. Code § 17-3-1.
Rape

The statute of limitations for this offense is as follows:

  1. When the rape is forcible, prosecution must be commenced within 15 years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If the rape is not forcible, then prosecution must be commenced within seven years of the offense; or
  3. If the victim is under 16 on the date of commission of the offense and the offense was committed on or after July 1, 1992 but before June 30, 2012, then the period does not run until the victim reaches the age of 16 or the violation is reported to law enforcement; or
  4. If the victim is under 16 on the date of the commission of the offense, then prosecution may be commenced at any time for offenses occurring on or after July 1, 2012.
  5. Prosecution may be commenced at any time when deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) evidence is used to establish the identity of the accused.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ga. Code § 16-6-1
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ga. Code § 17-3-1 and Ga. Code § 17-3-2.1.
Sodomy, aggravated sodomy
  1. Ga. Code Ann.  § 16-6-2 has been recognized as unconstitutional.  Doe v. Hood, 345 F. Supp. 3d 749 (S.D. Miss. 2018).
  1. Citation for the crime: Ga. Code § 16-6-2.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ga. Code Ann.  § 16-6-2 has been recognized as unconstitutional.  Doe v. Hood, 345 F. Supp. 3d 749 (S.D. Miss. 2018).
Statutory rape (victim under age of 16 not a spouse of the offender)
  1. Prosecution must commence within seven years after the commission of the crime; or
  2. If the victim is at least 14 but less than 16, and the offender is 18 or younger and no more than 4 years older than the victim, then prosecution must commence within two years after commission of the crime; or
  3. If the offense was committed on or after July 1, 1992 but before June 30, 2012, then the period does not run until the victim reaches the age of 16 or the violation is reported to law enforcement.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ga. Code § 16-6-3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ga. Code § 17-3-1 and Ga. Code § 17-3-2.1.
Child molestation, aggravated child molestation

Child molestation:

  1. Prosecution must commence within seven years of the crime; or
  2. If the victim is at least 14 but less than 16, and the offender is 18 or younger and within four years of the victim, then prosecution must commence within two years of the crime.

Aggravated child molestation:

  1. Prosecution must commence within seven years of the crime; or
  2. If the victim is between 14 and 16, the offender is 18 or younger and within four years of the victim, and the basis of the charge of aggravated child molestation is that the act involved sodomy, then the prosecution must commence within two years.
  3. Prosecution may be commenced at any time when deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) evidence is used to establish the identity of the accused.

For both child molestation and aggravated child molestation: 

  1. If the offense was committed on or after July 1, 1992 but before June 30, 2012, then the period does not run until the victim reaches the age of 16 or the violation is reported to law enforcement; or
  2. Prosecution may be commenced at any time for offenses occurring on or after July 1, 2012.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ga. Code § 16-6-4.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ga. Code §§ 17-3-1, 17-3-2.1.
Incest
  1. Prosecution must commence within four years after commission of the crime; or
  2. Prosecution must commence within seven years of the crime, if the victim is under 18; or
  3. If the victim is under 16 on the date of commission of the offense and the offense was committed on or after July 1, 1992 but before June 30, 2012, then the period does not run until the victim reaches the age of 16 or the violation is reported to law enforcement; or
  4. If the victim is under 16 on the date of the commission of the offense, then prosecution may be commenced at any time for offenses occurring on or after July 1, 2012.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ga. Code § 16-6-22
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ga. Code §§ 17-3-1, 17-3-2.1.
Sexual battery

The statute of limitations for this crime is as follows:

  1. For sexual battery on persons over 16, prosecution must commence within two years after commission of the crime if it is the offender’s first offense; or
  2. For sexual battery on persons over 16, prosecution must commence within four years of the crime, if the offender has a prior conviction for sexual battery; or
  3. For sexual battery committed against victims who are under 16 at the time the offense is committed, prosecution must commence within seven years after commission of the crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ga. Code § 16-6-22.1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ga. Code § 17-3-1.
Aggravated sexual battery
  1. Prosecution must commence within seven years after the commission of the crime.
  2. Prosecution may be commenced at any time when deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) evidence is used to establish the identity of the accused.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ga. Code § 16-6-22.2.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ga. Code § 17-3-1.
Trafficking a person for labor or sexual servitude

The statute of limitations for this offense is as follows: 

  1. Prosecution must commence within four years of the commission of the crime; or
  2. If the victim is under 18 or has a developmental disability, then prosecution must commence within seven years of the crime; or
  3. If the victim is under 16 on the date of the commission of the offense, and the offense occurred on or after July 1, 2012, then prosecution may be commenced at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ga. Code § 16-5-46.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ga. Code §§ 17-3-1, 17-3-2.1.
Enticing a child for indecent purposes

The statute of limitations for this crime is as follows:

  1. Prosecution must commence within seven years after the commission of the crime; or
  2. If the victim is at least 14 but less than 16, and the offender is 18 or younger and no more than four years older than the victim, prosecution must commence within two years of the crime; or
  3. If the victim is under 16 on the date of commission of the offense and the offense was committed on or after July 1, 1992 but before June 30, 2012, then the period does not run until the victim reaches the age of 16 or the violation is reported to law enforcement; or
  4. If the victim is under 16 on the date of the commission of the offense, then prosecution may be commenced at any time for offenses occurring on or after July 1, 2012 (unless the offender is no more than 18 years old, is no more than four years older than the victim, and the victim is at least 14 years old).
  1. Citation for the crime: Ga. Code § 16-6-5.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ga. Code §§ 17-3-1, 17-3-2.1.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?
Sexual Assault (by persons with supervisory or disciplinary authority)

The statute of limitations for this crime is as follows:

  1. Prosecution for sexual assault must commence within four years after the offense; or
  2. For sexual assault committed against victims who are under 18 at the time the offense is committed, prosecution must commence within seven years after commission of the crime; or
  3. If the victim is at least 14 and less than 16, and the offender is 18 or younger and no more than four years older than the victim, then prosecution must commence within two years of the crime.

  1. Citation for the crime: Ga. Code § 16-6-5.1.

  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ga. Code § 17-3-1.






Guam What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Anything else I should know?
First Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct
  1. There is no limitations period for this crime. 
  1. Citation for the crime: 9 Guam Code Ann. § 25.15
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 8 Guam Code Ann. § 10.17
Second Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct
  1. There is no limitations period for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: 9 Guam Code Ann. § 25.20
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 8 Guam Code Ann. § 10.17
Third Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct

Criminal sexual conduct in the third degree is a felony of the second degree.

  1. If the offense was committed while the victim was under the age of majority, and the victim had exceeded the age of majority plus three (3) years by March 9, 2011, the suit may be barred.
  2. If the above does not apply, and the victim is or was under the age of majority at the time the offense was committed, or the victim’s mental comprehension and capacity was below the age of adolescence at the time the offense was committed, there is no limitation on when a prosecution for third degree criminal sexual conduct may be commenced.
  3. If the victim was not under the age of majority, or the victim’s mental comprehension and capacity was not below the age of adolescence at the time the offense was committed, then a prosecution must be commenced within three (3) years after the offense was committed. 
  1. Citation for the crime: 9 Guam Code Ann. § 25.25
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 8 Guam Code Ann. §§ 10.15, 10.16, 10.20
Fourth Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct

Criminal sexual conduct in the fourth degree is a misdemeanor for first time offenders and the victim is eighteen (18) years of age or older, and is otherwise a felony of the third degree.

  1. If the offense was committed while the victim was under the age of majority, and the victim had exceeded the age of majority plus three (3) years by March 9, 2011, the suit may be barred.
  2. If the above does not apply, and the victim is or was under the age of majority at the time the offense was committed, or the victim’s mental comprehension and capacity was below the age of adolescence at the time the offense was committed, there is no limitation on when a prosecution for fourth degree criminal sexual conduct may be commenced.
  3. If the victim was not under the age of majority, or the victim’s mental comprehension and capacity was not below the age of adolescence at the time the offense was committed, then a prosecution must be commenced within three (3) years after the offense was committed.
  4. If a misdemeanor, prosecution must be commenced within one (1) year after the offense was committed. 
  1. Citation for the crime: 9 Guam Code Ann. § 25.30
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 8 Guam Code Ann.  §§ 10.15, 10.16,10.20, 10.30
Assault with Intent to Commit Criminal Sexual Conduct

Assault with intent to commit criminal sexual conduct involving penetration is a felony of the third degree.

  1. If the offense was committed while the victim was under the age of majority, and the victim had exceeded the age of majority plus three (3) years by March 9, 2011, the suit may be barred.
  2. If the above does not apply, and the victim is or was under the age of majority or the victim’s mental comprehension and capacity was below the age of adolescence at the time the offense was committed, there is no limitation on when a prosecution may be commenced.
  3. If the victim was not under the age of majority, or the victim’s mental comprehension and capacity was not below the age of adolescence at the time the offense was committed, then a prosecution must be commenced within three (3) years after the offense was committed.
  1. Citation for the crime: 9 Guam Code Ann. § 25.35
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 8 Guam Code Ann. §§ 10.15, 10.16, 10.20
Indecent electronic display to a child

Indecent electronic display to a child is a third degree felony. 

  1. If the offense was committed while the victim was under the age of majority, and the victim had exceeded the age of majority plus three (3) years by March 9, 2011, the suit may be barred.
  2. If the above does not apply, and the victim is or was under the age of majority or the victim’s mental comprehension and capacity was below the age of adolescence at the time the offense was committed, there is no limitation on when a prosecution may be commenced.
  3. If the victim was not under the age of majority, or the victim’s mental comprehension and capacity was not below the age of adolescence at the time the offense was committed, then a prosecution must be commenced within three (3) years after the offense was committed.
  1. Citation for the crime: 9 Guam Code Ann. § 25A102
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 8 Guam Code Ann. §§ 10.15, 10.16, 10.20
Electronic enticement of a child

Depending on the applicable facts, electronic enticement of a child could be considered a first, second, or third degree felony.

  1. If the offense was committed while the victim was under the age of majority, and the victim had exceeded the age of majority plus three (3) years by March 9, 2011, the suit may be barred.
  2. If the above does not apply, and the victim is or was under the age of majority or the victim’s mental comprehension and capacity was below the age of adolescence at the time the offense was committed, there is no limitation on when a prosecution may be commenced.
  3. If the victim was not under the age of majority, or the victim’s mental comprehension and capacity was not below the age of adolescence at the time the offense was committed, then a prosecution must be commenced within three (3)  years after the offense was committed.
  1. Citation for the crime: 9 Guam Code Ann. §§ 25A103-25A105
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 8 Guam Code Ann. §§ 10.15, 10.16, 10.20
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?






Hawaii What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Sex trafficking

Sex trafficking is a class A felony.

  1. There is no limitations period for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Haw. Rev. Stat. § 712-1202
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Haw. Rev. Stat. § 701-108(1)
Sexual assault, first degree

Sexual assault in the first degree is a class A felony.

  1. There is no limitations period for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Haw. Rev. Stat. § 707-730
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Haw. Rev. Stat. § 701-108(1)
Sexual assault, second degree

Sexual assault in the second degree is a class B felony.

  1. There is no limitations period for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Haw. Rev. Stat. § 707-731
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Haw. Rev. Stat. § 701-108(1)
Sexual assault, third degree

Sexual assault in the third degree is a class C felony.

  1. A prosecution must be commenced within three (3) years after the offense is committed, except where the victim is alive and under eighteen (18) years of age, in which case the three (3) year statute of limitation does not begin to run until the victim turns eighteen (18) years of age.
  1. Citation for the crime: Haw. Rev. Stat. § 707-732
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Haw. Rev. Stat. §§ 701-108(2)(d); 108(6)(c)
Sexual assault, fourth degree

Sexual assault in the fourth degree is a misdemeanor.

  1. A prosecution must be commenced within two (2) years after the offense is committed.
  1. Citation for the crime: Haw. Rev. Stat. § 707-733
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Haw. Rev. Stat. § 701-108(2)(e)
Continuous sexual assault of a minor under the age of 14 years

Continuous sexual assault of a minor under the age of fourteen (14) years is a class A felony.

  1. There is no limitations period for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Haw. Rev. Stat. § 707-733.6
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Haw. Rev. Stat. § 701-108(1)
Indecent exposure

Indecent exposure is a petty misdemeanor.

  1. A prosecution must be commenced within one (1) year after the offense is committed.
  1. Citation for the crime: Haw. Rev. Stat. § 707-734
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Haw. Rev. Stat. § 701-108(2)(f)
Incest

Incest is a class C felony.

  1. A prosecution must be commenced within three (3) years after the offense is committed, except where the victim is alive and under eighteen (18) years of age when the offense was committed, in which case the three (3) year statute of limitation does not begin to run until the victim turns eighteen (18) years of age.
  1. Citation for the crime: Haw. Rev. Stat. § 707-741
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Haw. Rev. Stat. §§ 701-108(2)(d); 108(6)(c)
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?






Idaho What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Rape of a spouse (definition)

This crime was repealed as of July 1, 2021.
Sexual exploitation by a medical care provider

Sexual exploitation by a medical care provider is a misdemeanor.

  1. A prosecution must be commenced by the filing of the complaint or the finding of an indictment within two (2) years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Idaho Code § 18-919.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Idaho Code § 19-406.
Sexual abuse and exploitation of a vulnerable adult

Sexual abuse and exploitation of a vulnerable adult is a felony.

Note: “Vulnerable adult” means a person eighteen (18) years of age or older who is unable to protect himself or herself from abuse, neglect or exploitation due to physical or mental impairment which affects the person’s judgment or behavior to the extent that he or she lacks sufficient understanding or capacity to make or communicate or implement decisions regarding his or her person, funds, property or resources.

  1. A prosecution must be commenced by the filing of the complaint or the finding of an indictment within five (5) years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Idaho Code § 18-1505B.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Idaho Code § 19-402.
Sexual abuse of a child under the age of sixteen (16) years

Sexual abuse of a child under the age of sixteen (16) years is a felony.

  1. There is no limitations period for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Idaho Code § 18-1506(5).
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Idaho Code § 19-401(4).
Ritualized abuse of a child (i.e., a person under the age of 18)
  1. Citation for the crime: Idaho Code § 18-1506A.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Idaho Code § 19-402.
Sexual exploitation of a child/Sexual exploitation of a child by electronic means

Depending on the facts, sexual exploitation of a child is either a felony or a misdemeanor.

  1. If a felony, a prosecution must be commenced by the filing of the complaint or the finding of an indictment within five (5) years after the commission of the offense.
  2. If a misdemeanor, a prosecution must be commenced by the filing of the complaint or the finding of an indictment within one (1) year after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Idaho Code §§ 18-1507, 18-1507A (Sexual Exploitation of a Child by Electronic Means).
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Idaho Code §§ 19-402, 19-403.
Possession of sexually exploitative material for other than a commercial purpose

This crime was repealed effective as of July 1, 2012.

This crime was repealed as of July 1, 2012.
Lewd conduct with a minor child under sixteen (16)

Lewd conduct with a minor child under sixteen (16) is a felony.

  1. There is no limitations period for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Idaho Code § 18-1508.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Idaho Code § 19-401.
Sexual battery of a minor child 16 or 17 years of age

Sexual battery of a minor child who is sixteen (16) or seventeen (17) years of age is a felony.

  1. A prosecution must be commenced by the filing of the complaint or the finding of an indictment within five (5) years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Idaho Code § 18-1508A.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Idaho Code § 19-402.
Enticing of children (i.e., a minor under the age of sixteen (16))

Enticing of children is a misdemeanor for a first offense and is a felony for second and subsequent offenses.

  1. For a misdemeanor, a prosecution must be commenced by the filing of the complaint or the finding of an indictment within one (1) year of the commission of the offense.
  2. For a felony, a prosecution must be commenced by the filing of the complaint or the finding of an indictment within five (5) years of the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Idaho Code § 18-1509.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Idaho Code §§ 19-402, 19-403.
Enticing of children (i.e., a minor under the age of 16) using internet or other communication device

Enticing of children through use of the internet or other communication device by a person aged eighteen (18) or older is a felony.

  1. A prosecution must be commenced by the filing of the complaint or the finding of an indictment within five (5) years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Idaho Code § 18-1509.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Idaho Code § 19-402.
Disseminating material harmful to minors

Disseminating material harmful to minors is a misdemeanor.

  1. A prosecution must be commenced against offender within one (1) year after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Idaho Code § 18-1515.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Idaho Code § 19-403.
Sexual contact with a prisoner or juvenile offender

Sexual contact with a prisoner or juvenile offender is a felony, punishable by up to life imprisonment.

  1. A prosecution must be commenced by the filing of the complaint or the finding of an indictment within five (5) years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Idaho Code § 18-6110.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Idaho Code § 19-402.
Incest

Incest is a felony, punishable by imprisonment for up to fifteen (15) years or by up to life imprisonment if the victim is under the age of eighteen (18).

  1. A prosecution must be commenced by the filing of the complaint or the finding of an indictment within five (5) years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Idaho Code § 18-6601; 18-111.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Idaho Code § 19-402.
Forcible sexual penetration by use of foreign object

Forcible sexual penetration by use of foreign object is a felony, punishable by up to life imprisonment.

  1. Prosecution must be commenced by the filing of the complaint or the finding of an indictment within five (5) years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Idaho Code § 18-6604.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Idaho Code § 19-402.
Crime of video voyeurism

Video voyeurism is a felony.

  1. Prosecution must be commenced by the filing of the complaint or the finding of an indictment within five (5) years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Idaho Code § 18-6605.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Idaho Code § 19-402.
Transfer of bodily fluid which may contain the HIV virus

Transfer of bodily fluid which may contain the HIV virus is a felony.

  1. Prosecution must be commenced by the filing of the complaint or the finding of an indictment within five (5) years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Idaho Code § 39-608.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Idaho Code § 19-402.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?
Female Genital Mutilation of a child (i.e., a person under the age of 18)

Female Genital Mutilation of a child is a felony.

  1. A prosecution must be commenced within three (3) years after the date of initial disclosure of the offense by the victim to law enforcement.
  1. Citation for the crime: Idaho Code § 18-1506B.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Idaho Code § 19-402.
Male rape (definition)

This crime was repealed as of July 1, 2016.

S.L. 2016, ch. 296, § 3.
Male rape (punishment)

This crime was repealed as of July 1, 2016.

S.L. 2016, ch. 296, § 3.
Rape

Rape is a felony.

  1. For rape as defined in Idaho Code § 18-6101(1)-(2), prosecution must be commenced by the filing of the complaint or the finding of an indictment within five (5) years after the commission of the offense.
  2. For rape as defined in Idaho Code § 18-6101(3)-(10), there is no limitations period.






Illinois What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Anything else I should know?
Criminal sexual assault

Depending upon the applicable facts, criminal sexual assault is a Class One (1) or a Class X felony.

  1. A prosecution for this offense may be commenced at any time. 
  1. Citation for the crime: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/11-1.20.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/3-5; 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. §§ 5/3-6(e), (i), (j).
Aggravated criminal sexual assault

Aggravated criminal sexual assault is a Class X felony.

  1. A prosecution for this offense may be commenced at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/11-1.30.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/3-5; 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. §§ 5/3-6(e), (i), (j).
Predatory criminal sexual assault of a child (i.e., victim under the age of thirteen (13))

Predatory criminal sexual assault of a child is a Class X felony.

  1. A prosecution for this offense may be commenced at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/11-1.40.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/3-5; 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. §§ 5/3-6(e), (i), (j).
Criminal sexual abuse

The classification of criminal sexual abuse depends on the following:

  • Class A Misdemeanor: If (a) the offender is under seventeen (17) years of age and the victim is at least nine (9) years old and under seventeen (17); or (b) the victim is at least thirteen (13) years of age but less than seventeen (17) years of age, and the offender is less than five (5) years older than the victim.
  • If the above circumstances do not apply, the first offense is a Class Four (4) felony. A second or subsequent violation is a Class Two (2) felony.

The applicable statute of limitations depends upon the classification of the crime, pursuant to the guidelines outlined above. 

Misdemeanor:

  1. A prosecution for any offense involving sexual conduct or sexual penetration may be commenced at any time.
  2. If the victim was under the age of eighteen (18) at the time of the offense, a prosecution may be commenced within ten (10) years after the child victim attains eighteen (18) years of age.
  3. If nothing else set forth here applies, a prosecution must be commenced within eighteen (18) months of the commission of the offense.

 

Felony:

  1. A prosecution for any offense involving sexual conduct or sexual penetration may be commenced at any time.
  2. If the victim is under 18 years of age at the time of the offense, a prosecution for felony criminal sexual abuse may be commenced at any time.
  3.  If the victim is under 18 years of age at the time of the offense, a prosecution for failure of a person who is required to report an alleged or suspected commission of felony criminal sexual abuse under the Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act may be commenced within 20 years after the child victim attains 18 years of age.
  4. Nothing in this subdivision shall be construed to shorten a period within which a prosecution must be commenced under any other provision of this Section.
  1. Citation for the crime: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/11-1.50
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. §§ 5/3-5; 5/3-6
Aggravated criminal sexual abuse

Aggravated criminal sexual abuse is a Class Two (2) felony.

  1. A prosecution for this offense may be commenced at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/11-1.60
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/3-5; 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. §§ 5/3-6 (e), (i), (j)
Indecent solicitation of a child (i.e., a person under seventeen (17))

Indecent solicitation of a child is classified as follows:

  • Class One (1) felony when the act, if done, would be predatory criminal sexual assault of a child or aggravated criminal sexual assault;
  • Class Two (2) felony when the act, if done, would be criminal sexual assault;
  • Class Three (3) felony when the act, if done, would be aggravated criminal sexual abuse; or
  • Class Four (4) felony if the offender discusses an act of sexual conduct or sexual penetration with a child or person whom the offender believes is a child by means of the internet, with the intent that the offense of aggravated criminal sexual assault, predatory criminal sexual assault of a child, or aggravated criminal sexual abuse be committed.

The statute of limitations is as follows:

  1. A prosecution for indecent solicitation of a child may be commenced within one (1) year of the victim attaining the age of eighteen (18) years. However, in no such case shall the time period for prosecution expire sooner than three (3) years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/11-6.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/3-5; 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/3-6(d).
Indecent solicitation of an adult

Indecent solicitation of an adult is classified as follows:

  1. Class X felony if the offender arranges for a person age seventeen (17) or over to commit an act of sexual penetration with a person under the age of thirteen (13);
  2. Class One (1) felony if the offender arranges for a person age seventeen (17) or over to commit an act of sexual penetration with a person thirteen (13) years of age or older but under the age of seventeen (17);
  3. Class Two (2) felony if the offender arranges for a person aged seventeen (17) or over to commit an act of sexual conduct with a person under the age of thirteen (13); or
  4. Class A misdemeanor if the offender arranges for a person aged seventeen (17) or over to commit an act of sexual conduct with a person aged thirteen (13) years or older but under the age of seventeen (17).

The statute of limitations depends upon the classification of the crime, detailed above. 

  1. If a felony, prosecution must commence within three (3) years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If a misdemeanor, prosecution must commence within eighteen (18) months after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/11-6.5.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/3-5.
Solicitation to meet a child (i.e., person under the age of seventeen (17))

Solicitation to meet a child is a Class Four (4) felony if the offender believes he or she is five (5) or more years older than the child. Otherwise, this crime is a Class A misdemeanor. 

  1. If a felony, prosecution must commence within three (3) years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If a misdemeanor, prosecution must commence within one (1) year and six (6) months (eighteen (18) months) after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/11-6.6.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/3-5.
Sexual exploitation of a child

Sexual exploitation of a child is a Class Four (4) felony if the offender has been previously convicted of a sex offense, the offense would be the second or subsequent violation of this Section or a substantially similar law of another state, the victim was under the age of thirteen (13) at the time of the offense, or the violation is committed on or within five hundred (500) feet of elementary or secondary school grounds while children are present.  Otherwise, this crime is a Class A misdemeanor.

  1. If a felony, prosecution must commence within three (3) years after commission of the offense.
  2. A prosecution for sexual exploitation of a child may be commenced within one (1) year of the victim attaining the age of eighteen (18) years. However, in no case shall the time period for prosecution expire sooner than three (3) years after the commission of the offense.
  3. If a misdemeanor, prosecution must commence within eighteen (18) months after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/11-9.1
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/3-5 and 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/3-6(d)
Permitting sexual abuse of a child

Permitting sexual abuse of a child is a Class One (1) felony.

  1. For all felonies, prosecution must commence within three (3) years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/11-9.1A
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/3-5
Custodial sexual misconduct

Custodial sexual misconduct is a Class Three (3) felony.

  1. A prosecution for any offense involving sexual conduct or sexual penetration may be commenced at any time.
  2. If the offender held a professional or fiduciary relationship or a purported professional or fiduciary relationship with the victim at the time of the commission of the offense, a prosecution may be commenced within one (1) year after the discovery of the offense by the victim.
  3. If neither of the above applies, prosecution must commence within three (3) years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/11-9.2.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. §§ 5/3-5; 5/3-6.
Sexual misconduct with a person with a disability

Sexual misconduct with a person with a disability is a Class Three (3) felony.

  1. A prosecution for any offense involving sexual conduct or sexual penetration may be commenced at any time.
  2. If the offender held a professional or fiduciary relationship or a purported professional or fiduciary relationship with the victim at the time of the commission of the offense, a prosecution may be commenced within one (1) year after the discovery of the offense by the victim.
  3. If neither of the above applies, prosecution must commence within three (3) years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/11-9.5.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. §§ 5/3-5; 5/3-6.
Sexual relations within families

Sexual relations within families is a Class Three (3) felony.

  1. A prosecution for any offense involving sexual conduct or sexual penetration may be commenced at any time.
  2. If the offender held a professional or fiduciary relationship or a purported professional or fiduciary relationship with the victim at the time of the commission of the offense, a prosecution may be commenced within one (1) year after the discovery of the offense by the victim.
  3. If neither of the above applies, prosecution must commence within three (3) years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/11-11.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. §§ 5/3-5; 5/3-6.
Grooming

Grooming is a Class Four (4) felony.

  1. For all felonies, prosecution must commence within three (3) years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/11-25.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/3-5.
Criminal transmission of HIV

This statute has been repealed.

This statute has been repealed.
Traveling to meet a minor (or luring for the purposes of engaging in any sex offense)

This crime is a Class Three (3) felony.

  1. Prosecution must commence within three (3) years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/11-26.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/3-5.
Ritualized abuse of a child (i.e., a person under the age of eighteen (18))

Ritualized abuse of a child is classified as follows:

  • Class One (1) felony for the first offense.
  • Class X felony when the act is done for a second or subsequent offense.

The statute of limitations is as follows:

  1. A prosecution for ritualized abuse of a child involving sexual conduct or sexual penetration may be commenced at any time.
  2. If the offender held a professional or fiduciary relationship or a purported professional or fiduciary relationship with the victim at the time of the commission of the offense, a prosecution may be commenced within one (1) year after the discovery of the offense by the victim.
  3. If neither of the above applies, prosecution must commence within three (3) years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/12-33 (a)(4).
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 720 Ill. Comp. Stat. §§ 5/3-5; 5/3-6.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?






Indiana What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Promotion of human sexual trafficking; promotion of child sexual trafficking; promotion of sexual trafficking of a younger child; child sexual traffic; human trafficking
  1. Promotion of human sexual trafficking:  Level Four (4) felony
  2. Promotion of child sexual trafficking;  Level Three (3) felony
  3. Promotion of sexual trafficking of a younger child: Level Three (3) felony
  4. Child sexual trafficking: Level Two (2) felony
  5. Human trafficking: Level Four (4) felony

The statute of limitations for this crime depends upon the crime’s classification, detailed above. 

  1. For a Level Three (3) and Four (4) felony:
    1. If the victim is under the age of eighteen (18): A prosecution must be brought within ten (10) years after commission of the offense or within four (4) years after the person ceases to be dependent of the person alleged to have committed the offense, whichever occurs later.
    2. If the victim is eighteen (18) or older: A prosecution must be brought within five (5) years after commission of the offense.
    3. Provided, however, if the prosecution would otherwise be barred under the foregoing sections (a) or (b), a prosecution may be commenced within one (1) year after the earlier of the date on which the state: (i) first discovers evidence sufficient to charge the offender with the offense through DNA analysis; or (ii) could have discovered evidence sufficient to charge the offender with the offense through DNA analysis through the exercise of due diligence.
  2. For a Level Two (2) felony: Prosecution may be commenced at any time.

1. Citation for the crime:

  • Promotion of Human Sexual Trafficking: Ind. Code § 35-42-3.5-1.1;
  • Promotion of Child Sexual Trafficking; promotion of sexual trafficking on a younger child: Ind. Code § 35-42-3.5-1.2;
  • Child sexual trafficking: Ind. Code § 35-42-3.5-1.3;
  • Human trafficking: Ind. Code Ann § 35-42-3.5-1.4.

2. Citation for the statute of limitiations: Ind. Code § 35-41-4-2.
Rape

Rape is a:

 

  • Level Three (3) felony if the offender knowingly or intentionally has sexual intercourse with another person or knowingly or intentionally causes another person to perform or submit to other sexual conduct when victim is compelled by force or imminent threat of force, victim is unaware that sexual intercourse is occurring, or victim is so mentally disabled or deficient that consent to sexual intercourse cannot be given; or
  • Level One (1) felony if, in addition to the circumstances described above:
    • The rape is committed by using or threatening the use of deadly force or while armed with a deadly weapon;
    • The rape results in serious bodily injury to someone other than perpetrator; or
    • The commission of the rape is facilitated by furnishing the victim, without victim’s knowledge, with a drug or controlled substance, or knowing that victim was furnished with a drug or controlled substance without victim’s knowledge.

The statute of limitations for this crime depends upon the crime’s classification, detailed above.

  1. For a Level Three (3) felony:
    1. If the victim is under the age of eighteen (18): A prosecution must be brought within ten (10) years after commission of the offense or within four (4) years after the person ceases to be dependent of the person alleged to have committed the offense, whichever occurs later.
    2. If the victim is eighteen (18) or older: A prosecution must be brought within five (5) years after commission of the offense.
    3. Provided, however, if the prosecution would otherwise be barred under the foregoing sections (a) or (b), a prosecution may be commenced not later than five (5) years after the earlier of the date on which: (i) the state first discovers evidence sufficient to charge the offender with the offense through DNA analysis; (ii) the state first becomes aware of the existence of a recording that provides evidence sufficient to charge the offender with the offense; or (iii) a person confesses to the offense.
  1. For a Level One (1) felony: A prosecution may be commenced at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ind. Code § 35-42-4-1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ind. Code § 35-41-4-2.
Child molesting

Child molesting is a:

 

Level Three (3) felony, if a person who, with a child under fourteen (14) years of age, knowingly or intentionally performs or submits to sexual intercourse or other sexual conduct.  However, the offense is a Level One (1) felony if:

  • It is committed by a person at least twenty-one (21) years of age;
  • It is committed by using or threatening the use of deadly force or while armed with a deadly weapon;
  • It results in serious bodily injury;
  • The commission of the offense is facilitated by furnishing the victim, without the victim’s knowledge, with a drug or controlled substance, or knowing that the victim was furnished with the drug or controlled substance without the victim’s knowledge; or
  • It results in the transmission of a dangerous sexually transmitted disease and the person knew that the person was infected with the disease.

 

Level Four (4) felony, if a person who, with a child under fourteen (14) years of age, performs or submits to any fondling or touching, of either the child or the older person, with intent to arouse or to satisfy the sexual desires of either the child or the older person. However, the offense is a Level Two (2) felony if:

  • It is committed by using or threatening the use of deadly force;
  • It is committed while armed with a deadly weapon; or
  • The commission of the offence is facilitated by furnishing the victim, without the victim’s knowledge, with a drug or a controlled substance, or knowing that the victim was furnished the drug or controlled substance without the victim’s knowledge.

The statute of limitations for this crime is as follows: 

  1. A prosecution must be commenced before the date that the alleged victim of the offense reaches thirty-one (31) years of age.
  2. Provided, however, if the prosecution would otherwise be barred under the foregoing section (1), a prosecution may be commenced not later than five (5) years after the earlier of the date on which: (i) the state first discovers evidence sufficient to charge the offender with the offense through DNA analysis; (ii) the state first becomes aware of the existence of a recording that provides evidence sufficient to charge the offender with the offense; or (iii) a person confesses to the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ind. Code § 35-42-4-3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ind. Code §§ 35-41-4-2(e), (p).
Child Exploitation/Possession of Child Pornography

Child exploitation is a:

  • Level Five (5) felony for a person who:
    • Knowingly or intentionally manages, produces, sponsors, presents, exhibits, photographs, films, videotapes, or creates a digitized image of any performance or incident that includes sexual conduct by a child under eighteen (18) years of age; or
    • Knowingly or intentionally disseminates, exhibits to another person, offers to disseminate or exhibit to another person, or sends or brings into Indiana for dissemination or exhibition matter that depicts or describes sexual conduct by a child under eighteen (18) years of age; or
    • Knowingly or intentionally makes a computer available to another person that contains matter that depicts or describes sexual conduct by a child less than eighteen (18);
    • With the intent to satisfy or arouse the sexual desires of any person, knowingly or intentionally manages, produces, sponsors, presents, exhibits, photographs, films, videotapes or creates digitized images of, or disseminates or exhibits, or offers to disseminate or exhibit or sends or brings into Indiana for dissemination or exhibition, any photographs, films, videotapes; or creates a digitalized image of, any performances or incident that includes the uncovered genitals of a child less than eighteen (18) or the exhibition of the female breast with less than a fully opaque covering of any part of the nipple of a child less than eighteen (18); or making available to another person a computer, knowing that the computer contains the above described matter; or
    • Knowingly or intentionally produces, disseminates, or possesses with intent to disseminate an image that depicts or describes sexual conduct (a) by a child who the person knows is less than eighteen (18) years of age, (b) by a child less than eighteen (18) years of age, or by a person who appears to be a child less than eighteen (18) years of age, if the image is obscene, or (c) that is simulated sexual conduct involving a representation that appears to be a child less than eighteen (18) years of age, if the representation of the image is obscene.
  • Level Four (4) felony:
    • However the offense described above is a Level Four felony if (a) the sexual conduct, matter, performance, or incident depicts or describes a child less than eighteen (18) years engaging in bestiality; is mentally disabled or deficient; participates in the sexual conduct, matter, performance, or incident by use of force or the threat of force; physically or verbally resists participating in the sexual conduct, matter, performance, or incident; receives a bodily injury while participating in the sexual conduct, matter, performance, or incident; or is less than twelve (12) years of age; or (b) the child less than eighteen (18) years of age: engages in bestiality; is mentally disabled or deficient; participates in the sexual conduct, matter, performance, or incident by use of force or the threat of force; physically or verbally resists participating in the sexual conduct, matter, performance, or incident; receives a bodily injury while participating in the sexual conduct, matter, performance, or incident; or is less than twelve (12) years of age.

 

Possession of Child Pornography is a:

 

  • Level Six (6) felony:
    • If a person knowingly or intentionally possesses or accesses with intent to view a picture, drawing, photograph, negative image, undeveloped film, motion picture, videotape; digitalized image, or any pictorial representation, that depict or describe sexual conduct by a child who the person knows is under eighteen (18), a child under eighteen (18) or looks to be less than eighteen (18) if the representation of the image is obscene, or that is simulated sexual conduct involving a representation that appears to be a child under eighteen (18) if the representation of the image is obscene.
  • Level Five (5) felony:
    • However, the offense described above constitutes a Level Five felony if (a) the sexual conduct, matter, performance, or incident depicts or describes a child less than eighteen (18) years engaging in bestiality; is mentally disabled or deficient; participates in the sexual conduct, matter, performance, or incident by use of force or the threat of force; physically or verbally resists participating in the sexual conduct, matter, performance, or incident; receives a bodily injury while participating in the sexual conduct, matter, performance, or incident; or is less than twelve (12) years of age; or (b) the child less than eighteen (18) years of age: engages in bestiality; is mentally disabled or deficient; participates in the sexual conduct, matter, performance, or incident by use of force or the threat of force; physically or verbally resists participating in the sexual conduct, matter, performance, or incident; receives a bodily injury while participating in the sexual conduct, matter, performance, or incident; or is less than twelve (12) years of age.

The statute of limitations for this crime is as follows:

  1. Prosecution must be commenced within ten (10) years after the commission of the offense, or within four (4) years after the victim ceases to be a dependent of the person alleged to have committed the offense, whichever occurs later.
  2. Provided, however, if the prosecution would otherwise be barred under the foregoing section (1), a prosecution may be commenced not later than five (5) years after the earlier of the date on which: (i) the state first discovers evidence sufficient to charge the offender with the offense through DNA analysis; (ii) the state first becomes aware of the existence of a recording that provides evidence sufficient to charge the offender with the offense; or (iii) a person confesses to the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ind. Code § 35-42-4-4.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ind. Code §§ 35-41-4- 2(m), (p).
Vicarious sexual gratification; fondling in the presence of a minor.

Vicarious sexual gratification is a:

 

  • Level Five (5) felony for an offender eighteen (18) or older who knowingly or intentionally directs, aids, induces, or causes a child under the age of sixteen (16) to touch or fondle himself or another child under the age of sixteen (16) with intent to arouse or satisfy the sexual desires of a child or the older person. However, the offense is a:
    • Level Four (4) felony if a child involved in the offense is under the age of fourteen (14);
    • Level Three (3) felony if the offense is committed by using or threatening the use of deadly force or while armed with a deadly weapon; or the commission of the offense is facilitated by furnishing the victim, without the victim’s knowledge, with a drug or a controlled substance or knowing that the victim was furnished with the drug or controlled substance without the victim’s knowledge or if it results in serious bodily injury.
  • Level Four (4) felony if a person eighteen (18) years of age or older who knowingly or intentionally directs, aids, induces, or causes a child under the age sixteen (16) to: engage in sexual intercourse with another child under sixteen (16) years of age; engage in sexual conduct with an animal other than a human being; or engage in other sexual conduct with another person; all with intent to arouse or satisfy the sexual desires of a child or the older person. However, the offense is a:
    • Level Three (3) felony if a child involved in the offense is under the age of fourteen (14);
    • Level Two (2) felony if the offense is committed by using or threatening the use of deadly force or while armed with a deadly weapon; or the commission of the offense is facilitated by furnishing the victim, without the victim’s knowledge, with a drug or a controlled substance or knowing that the victim was furnished with the drug or controlled substance without the victim’s knowledge or if it results in serious bodily injury.
  • Level Six (6) felony if a person eighteen (18) years of age or older who knowingly or intentionally engages in sexual intercourse; engages in other sexual conduct; or touches or fondles the person’s own body in the presence of a child less than fourteen (14) years of age with the intent to arouse or satisfy the sexual desires of the child or the older persons commits performing sexual conduct in the presence of a minor.

The statute of limitations for this crime is as follows: 

  1. A prosecution must be commenced before the date that the alleged victim of the offense reaches thirty-one (31) years of age.
  2. Provided, however, if the prosecution would otherwise be barred under the foregoing section (1), a prosecution may be commenced not later than five (5) years after the earlier of the date on which: (i) the state first discovers evidence sufficient to charge the offender with the offense through DNA analysis; (ii) the state first becomes aware of the existence of a recording that provides evidence sufficient to charge the offender with the offense; or (iii) a person confesses to the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ind. Code § 35-42-4-5
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ind. Code §§ 35-41-4-2(e), (p).
Child solicitation

Child solicitation is a:

 

  • Level Five (5) felony if a person age eighteen (18) or older knowingly or intentionally solicits a child under fourteen (14) years of age, or an individual the person believes to be a child under fourteen (14) years of age, to engage in (a) sexual intercourse, (b) other sexual conduct, or (c) any fondling or touching intended to arouse or satisfy the sexual desires of either the child or the older person.
  • Level Four (4) felony if the above crime is committed by using a computer network (as defined in § 35-43-2-3) and the offender travels to meet the child, or the offender has a previous unrelated conviction for an offense under this section.
  • Level Five (5) felony if a person age twenty-one (21) or older knowingly or intentionally solicits an individual at least fourteen (14) years old but less than sixteen (16) years old (or a person the offender believes to be between fourteen (14) years old and sixteen (16) years old) to engage in (1) sexual intercourse, (2) other sexual conduct, or (3) any fondling or touching intended to arouse or satisfy the sexual desires of either the child or the older person.
  • Level Four (4) felony if the above crime is committed by a person who solicits the child or individual the person believes to be a child at least fourteen (14) years of age but less than sixteen (16) years of age by using a computer network (as defined in § 35-43-2-3) and the offender travels to meet the child, or the offender has a previous unrelated conviction for an offense under this section.

The statute of limitations for this crime is as follows: 

  1. A prosecution must be commenced before the date that the alleged victim of the offense reaches thirty-one (31) years of age.
  2. Provided, however, if the prosecution would otherwise be barred under the foregoing section (1), a prosecution may be commenced not later than five (5) years after the earlier of the date on which: (i) the state first discovers evidence sufficient to charge the offender with the offense through DNA analysis; (ii) the state first becomes aware of the existence of a recording that provides evidence sufficient to charge the offender with the offense; or (iii) a person confesses to the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ind. Code § 35-42-4-6.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ind. Code §§ 35-41-4-2(e), (p).
Child seduction

Child seduction is a:

 

  • Level Six (6) felony if the child is at least sixteen (16) years of age but less than eighteen (18) years of age and the person or law enforcement officer engaged in any fondling or touching with the intent to arouse or satisfy the sexual desires of the child or the person or law enforcement officer;
  • Level Five (5) felony if the child is at least sixteen (16) years of age but less than eighteen (18) years of age and the person or law enforcement officer engaged in sexual intercourse or other sexual conduct with the child;
  • Level Five (5) felony if the child is at least fourteen (14) years of age but less than sixteen (16) years of age and the person or law enforcement officer engaged in any fondling or touching with the intent to arouse or satisfy the sexual desires of the child the person or law enforcement officer;
  • Level Four (4) felony if the child is at least fourteen (14) years of age but less than sixteen (16) years of age and the person or law enforcement officer engaged in sexual intercourse or other sexual conduct with the child;
  • Level Three (3) felony if the child is thirteen (13) years of age or under and the person or law enforcement officer engaged in any fondling or touching with the intent to arouse or satisfy the sexual desires of the child or the person or law enforcement officer; and
  • Level Two (2) felony if the child is thirteen (13) years of age or under and the person or law enforcement officer engaged in sexual intercourse or other sexual conduct with the child.

The statute of limitations for this crime is as follows: 

  1. A prosecution must be commenced before the date that the alleged victim of the offense reaches thirty-one (31) years of age.
  2. Provided, however, if the prosecution would otherwise be barred under the foregoing section (1), a prosecution may be commenced not later than five (5) years after the earlier of the date on which: (i) the state first discovers evidence sufficient to charge the offender with the offense through DNA analysis; (ii) the state first becomes aware of the existence of a recording that provides evidence sufficient to charge the offender with the offense; or (iii) a person confesses to the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ind. Code § 35-42-4-7.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ind. Code §§ 35-41-4-2(e), (p).
Sexual battery

Sexual battery is a:

 

  • Level Six (6) felony if the perpetrator, with the intent to arouse or satisfy perpetrator’s own sexual desires or the sexual desires of another:
    • Touches victim when victim is compelled to submit to the touching by force or the imminent threat of force or so mentally disabled or deficient that consent to the touching cannot be given; or
    • Touches another person’s genitals, pubic area, buttocks, or female breast when that person is unaware that the touching is occurring.
  • Level Four (4) felony if, along with description above, the offense is committed by using or threatening the use of deadly force or while armed with a deadly weapon, or if commission of the offense is facilitated by furnishing the victim, without victim’s knowledge, with a drug or controlled substance, or knowing that victim was furnished with a drug or controlled substance without victim’s knowledge

The statute of limitations for this crime depends upon the crime’s classification, detailed above. 

  1. For a Level Four (4) or Six (6) felony:
    • If the victim is under the age of eighteen (18): A prosecution must be brought within ten (10) years after commission of the offense or within four (4) years after the person ceases to be dependent of the person alleged to have committed the offense, whichever occurs later.
    • Provided, however, if the prosecution would otherwise be barred under the foregoing section (a), a prosecution may be commenced not later than five (5) years after the earlier of the date on which: (i) the state first discovers evidence sufficient to charge the offender with the offense through DNA analysis; (ii) the state first becomes aware of the existence of a recording that provides evidence sufficient to charge the offender with the offense; or (iii) a person confesses to the offense.
  2. If the victim is eighteen (18) or older: A prosecution must be brought within five (5) years after commission of the offense.
    • Provided, however, for a Level Four (4) felony only, if the prosecution would otherwise be barred under the foregoing section (b), a prosecution may be commenced within one (1) year after the earlier of the date on which the state: (i) first discovers evidence sufficient to charge the offender with the offense through DNA analysis; or (ii) could have discovered evidence sufficient to charge the offender with the offense through DNA analysis through the exercise of due diligence.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ind. Code § 35-42-4-8.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ind. Code § 35-41-4-2.
Sexual misconduct with a minor

Sexual misconduct with a minor is a:

 

  • Level Five (5) felony if a person at least eighteen (18) knowingly or intentionally performs or submits to sexual intercourse or other sexual conduct with a child less than sixteen (16), but:
    • Level Four (4) felony if perpetrator is at least twenty-one (21); or
    • Level One (1) felony if offense is committed by using or threatening the use of deadly force or while armed with a deadly weapon, if it results in serious bodily injury or if commission of the offense is facilitated by furnishing the victim, without victim’s knowledge, with a drug or controlled substance, or knowing that victim was furnished with a drug or controlled substance without victim’s knowledge.
  • Level Six (6) felony if a person at least eighteen (18) knowingly or intentionally performs or submits to any fondling or touching with a child less than sixteen (16) with intent to arouse or satisfy the sexual desires of either the child or the older person, but:
    • Level Five (5) felony if perpetrator is at least twenty-one (21); or
    • Level Two (2) felony if offense is committed by using or threatening the use of deadly force or while armed with a deadly weapon, or if commission of the offense is facilitated by furnishing the victim, without victim’s knowledge, with a drug or controlled substance, or knowing that victim was furnished with a drug or controlled substance without victim’s knowledge.

The statute of limitations for this crime is as follows:  

  1. A prosecution must be commenced before the date that the alleged victim of the offense reaches thirty-one (31) years of age.
  2. Provided, however, if the prosecution would otherwise be barred under the foregoing section (1), a prosecution may be commenced not later than five (5) years after the earlier of the date on which: (i) the state first discovers evidence sufficient to charge the offender with the offense through DNA analysis; (ii) the state first becomes aware of the existence of a recording that provides evidence sufficient to charge the offender with the offense; or (iii) a person confesses to the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ind. Code § 35-42-4-9.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ind. Code §§ 35-41-4-2(e),(p).
Incest (Applies to offenders age 18 or older)

Incest is a:

 

  • Level Five (5) felony if the offender engages in sexual intercourse or other sexual conduct with another person, when the person knows that the other person is related to the person biologically as a parent, child, grandparent, grandchild, sibling, aunt, uncle, niece, or nephew and the victim is over the age of sixteen (16).
  • Level Four (4) felony if the victim is under the age of sixteen (16).

The statute of limitations for this crime is as follows:  

  1. A prosecution must be commenced before the date that the alleged victim of the offense reaches thirty-one (31) years of age.
  2. Provided, however, if the prosecution would otherwise be barred under the foregoing section (1), a prosecution may be commenced not later than five (5) years after the earlier of the date on which: (i) the state first discovers evidence sufficient to charge the offender with the offense through DNA analysis; (ii) the state first becomes aware of the existence of a recording that provides evidence sufficient to charge the offender with the offense; or (iii) a person confesses to the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ind. Code § 35-46-1-3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ind. Code §§ 35-41-4-2(e), (p).
Failure of carriers of dangerous communicable diseases to warn persons at risk

This statute has been repealed.

This statute has been repealed.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?






Iowa What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Sexual abuse, first degree

Sexual abuse in the first degree is a Class “A” felony.

  1. If the victim is under the age of eighteen (18), an information or indictment may be commenced at any time after the commission of the offense.
  2. If the victim is eighteen (18) years of age or older, an information or indictment must be commenced by the later of either: (a) within ten (10) years after the commission of the crime; or (b) if the offender is identified through the use of a DNA profile, within three (3) years from the date the offender is identified by his or her DNA.
  1. Citation for the crime: Iowa Code § 709.2.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Iowa Code § 802.2.
Sexual abuse, second degree

Sexual abuse in the second degree is a Class “B” felony.

  1. If the victim is under the age of eighteen (18), an information or indictment may be commenced at any time after the commission of the offense.
  2. If the victim is eighteen (18) years of age or older, an information or indictment must be commenced by the later of either: (a) within ten (10) years after the commission of the crime; or (b) if the offender is identified through the use of a DNA profile, within three (3) years from the date the offender is identified by his or her DNA.
  1. Citation for the crime: Iowa Code § 709.3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Iowa Code § 802.2.
Sexual abuse, third degree

Sexual abuse in the third degree is a Class “C” felony.

  1. If the victim is under the age of eighteen (18), an information or indictment may be commenced at any time after the commission of the offense.
  2. If the victim is eighteen (18) years of age or older, an information or indictment must be commenced by the later of either: (a) within ten (10) years after the commission of the crime; or (b) if the offender is identified through the use of a DNA profile, within three (3) years from the date the offender is identified by his or her DNA.
  1. Citation for the crime: Iowa Code § 709.4.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Iowa Code § 802.2.
Lascivious acts with a child

A lascivious act with a child is a Class “C” or “D” felony, depending upon the circumstances.

  1. An information or indictment may be commenced at any time after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Iowa Code § 709.8.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Iowa Code § 802.2B.
Assault with intent to commit sexual abuse

Assault with intent to commit sexual abuse is a:

 

  • Class “C” felony if the person who commits the assault with the intent to commit sexual abuse thereby causes serious injury to any person; or 
  • Class “D” felony if the person who commits the assault with the intent to commit sexual abuse thereby causes any person a bodily injury other than a serious injury; or
  • An aggravated misdemeanor if no injury results.

 

The statute of limitations is as follows:

  1. If the victim was under eighteen (18) years of age at the time of the commission of the offense, an information or indictment may be commenced at any time after the commission of the offense.
  2. If the victim was not under the age of eighteen (18) at the time of the commission of the offense, an indictment or information must be found within three (3) years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Iowa Code § 709.11.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Iowa Code §§ 802.2B, 802.3.
Indecent contact with a child

Indecent contact with a child is an aggravated misdemeanor.

  1. An information or indictment may be commenced at any time after the commission of the offense.
  1. itation for the crime: Iowa Code § 709.12.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Iowa Code § 802.2B.
Lascivious conduct with a minor

Lascivious conduct with a minor is a serious misdemeanor.

  1. An information or indictment may be commenced at any time after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Iowa Code § 709.14.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Iowa Code § 802.2B.
Sexual exploitation by a counselor, therapist, or school employee

The classification for this crime depends upon the following: 

 

  • Class “D” felony if there is: (1) a pattern or scheme of sexual conduct by a counselor or therapist (i) with an emotionally dependent patient or client or emotionally dependent former patient or client for the purpose of arousing or satisfying the sexual desires of the counselor or therapist or the emotionally dependent patient or client or emotionally dependent former patient or client or (ii) with a patient or client or former patient or client within one year of the termination of the provision of mental health services by the counselor or therapist for the purpose of arousing or satisfying the sexual desires of the counselor or therapist or the patient or client or former patient or client, in either case including kissing and touching of the clothed or unclothed inner thigh, breast, groin, buttock, anus, pubes, or genitals, or a sex act, (2) a pattern or scheme of sexual conduct by a school employee with a student for the purpose of arousing or satisfying the sexual desires of the school employee or the student, including kissing, touching of the clothed or unclothed inner thigh, breast, groin, buttock, anus, pubes, or genitals, or a sex act, or (3) a pattern or scheme of sexual conduct by an adult providing training or instruction with a minor for the purpose of arousing or satisfying the sexual desires of the adult providing training or instruction or the minor, including kissing, touching of the clothed or unclothed inner thigh, breast, groin, buttock, anus, pubes, or genitals, or a sex act.
  • Aggravated misdemeanor if there is: (1) any sexual conduct by a counselor or therapist with an emotionally dependent patient or client or emotionally dependent former patient or client for the purpose of arousing or satisfying the sexual desires of the counselor or therapist or the emotionally dependent patient or client or emotionally dependent former patient or client, including kissing and touching of the clothed or unclothed inner thigh, breast, groin, buttock, anus, pubes, or genitals, or a sex act; (2) any sexual conduct by a school employee with a student for the purpose of arousing or satisfying the sexual desires of the school employee or the student, including kissing, touching of the clothed or unclothed inner thigh, breast, groin, buttock, anus, pubes, or genitals, or a sex act; or (3) any sexual conduct by an adult providing training or instruction with a minor for the purpose of arousing or satisfying the sexual desires of the an adult providing training or instruction or the minor, including kissing, touching of the clothed or unclothed inner thigh, breast, groin, buttock, anus, pubes, or genitals, or a sex act.
  • Serious misdemeanor if there is any sexual conduct by a counselor or therapist with a patient or client or former patient or client within one year of the termination of the provision of mental health services by the counselor or therapist for the purpose of arousing or satisfying the sexual desires of the counselor or therapist or the emotionally dependent patient or client or emotionally dependent former patient or client, including kissing and touching of the clothed or unclothed inner thigh, breast, groin, buttock, anus, pubes, or genitals, or a sex act.

The statute of limitations for this crime depends upon the age of the victim at the time of the commission of the offense. 

  1. If the victim is under age eighteen (18), an information or indictment may be commenced at any time after the commission of the offense.
  2. If the victim is age eighteen (18) or older, an indictment or information must be found within three (3) years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Iowa Code § 709.15.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Iowa Code §§ 802.2A, 802.3.
Sexual misconduct with offenders and juveniles

Sexual misconduct with offenders and juveniles is an aggravated misdemeanor.

  1. If the victim is under the age of eighteen (18) and placed in a juvenile placement facility, an information or indictment may be commenced at any time after the commission of the offense.
  2. In all other cases, an indictment or information must be found within three (3) years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Iowa Code § 709.16.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Iowa Code §§ 802.2B; 802.3.
Incest

Incest is a Class “D” felony.

  1. If the victim is under the age of eighteen (18), an information or indictment may be commenced at any time after the commission of the offense.
  2. If the victim is aged eighteen (18) or older, an indictment or information must be found within three (3) years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Iowa Code § 726.2.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Iowa Code §§ 802.2A; 802.3.
Sexual exploitation of a minor

Sexual exploitation of a minor is a Class “B”, “C” or “D” felony, depending upon the circumstances.

  1. An information or indictment may be commenced at any time after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Iowa Code § 728.12.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Iowa Code § 802.2B.
Criminal transmission of HIV

This statute was repealed.

This statute was repealed.
Indecent exposure - masturbation

Indecent exposure is a serious or aggravated misdemeanor depending upon the circumstances.

 

  • Serious misdemeanor if a person exposes the person’s genitals or pubic area to another not the person’s spouse, or who commits a sex act in the presence of or view of a third person and if all of the following apply: (a) the person does so to arouse or satisfy the sexual desires of either party; and (b) the person knows or reasonably should know that the act is offensive to the viewer.
  • Serious misdemeanor if a person masturbates in public in the presence of another, not a child.
  • Aggravated misdemeanor if a person masturbates in public in the presence of a child.

 

The statute of limitations is as follows:

  1. An indictment or information must be found within three (3) years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Iowa Code § 709.9.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Iowa Code § 802.3.
Invasion of privacy--nudity

Invasion of privacy-nudity is an aggravated misdemeanor.

  1. An indictment or information must be found within three (3) years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Iowa Code § 709.21.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Iowa Code § 802.3.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?
Contagious or Infectious Disease Transmission Act

This offense is a class “B” or ”D” felony or serious misdemeanor, depending upon the circumstances.

  • A person commits a Class “B” felony when the person knows the person is infected with a contagious or infectious disease and exposes an uninfected person to the contagious or infectious disease with the intent that the uninfected person contract the contagious or infectious disease, and the conduct results in the uninfected person becoming infected with the contagious or infectious disease.
  • A person commits a Class “D” felony when the person knows the person is infected with a contagious or infectious disease and exposes an uninfected person to the contagious or infectious disease with the intent that the uninfected person contract the contagious or infectious disease, but the conduct does not result in the uninfected person becoming infected with the contagious or infectious disease.
  • A person commits a Class “D” felony when the person knows the person is infected with a contagious or infectious disease and exposes an uninfected person to the contagious or infectious disease acting with a reckless disregard as to whether the uninfected person contracts the contagious or infectious disease, and the conduct results in the uninfected person becoming infected with the contagious or infectious disease.
  • A person commits a serious misdemeanor when the person knows the person is infected with a contagious or infectious disease and exposes an uninfected person to the contagious or infectious disease acting with a reckless disregard as to whether the uninfected person contracts the contagious or infectious disease, but the conduct does not result in the uninfected person becoming infected with the contagious or infectious disease.

The statute of limitations is as follows:

  1. An indictment or information must be found within three (3) years after commission of the offense.
  1.  Citation for the crime: Iowa Code § 709D.3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Iowa Code § 802.3.
Continuous sexual abuse of a child

Continuous sexual abuse of a child is a class “B” felony.

  1. An information or indictment may be commenced be brought at any time after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Iowa Code § 709.23.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Iowa Code § 802.2.
Enticing a minor

Enticing a minor is a Class “C” or “D” felony, or an aggravating misdemeanor, depending upon the circumstances.

 

  • Class “C” felony when, without authority and with the intent to commit sexual abuse or sexual exploitation upon a minor under the age of thirteen (13), a person entices or attempts to entice a person reasonably believed to be under the age of thirteen (13).
  • Class “D” felony when, without authority and with the intent to commit an illegal sex act upon or sexual exploitation of a minor under the age of sixteen (16), a person entices or attempts to entice a person reasonably believed to be under the age of sixteen (16).
  • Class “D” felony when, without authority and with the intent to commit an illegal act upon a minor under the age of sixteen (16), if a person entices a person reasonably believed to be under the age of sixteen (16).
  • Aggravated misdemeanor when, without authority and with the intent to commit an illegal act upon a minor under the age of sixteen (16), a person attempts to entice a person reasonably believed to be under the age of sixteen (16).

 

The statute of limitations is as follows:

  1. Prosecution must commence against the offender within three (3) years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Iowa Code § 710.10.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Iowa Code §§ 802.3.






Kansas What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Rape

Rape is a severity Level One (1) or Two (2) person felony, or an off-grid person felony, depending upon the circumstances.

  1. A prosecution for rape may be commenced at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: Kan. Stat. § 21-5503.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Kan. Stat. § 21-5107(a).  
Criminal sodomy; aggravated criminal sodomy

Criminal sodomy is classified as follows:

  • A Class B nonperson misdemeanor if sodomy occurs between persons who are sixteen (16) or more years of age and members of the same sex, or between a person and an animal; or
  • A severity Level Three (3) person felony if sodomy occurs with a child who is fourteen (14) or above but less than sixteen (16), or if the perpetrator causes a child fourteen (14) or above but less than sixteen (16) to engage in sodomy with any person or animal.

Aggravated criminal sodomy is classified as follows:

  • Severity Level One (1) person felony if: (i) sodomy is with a child who is under fourteen (14) years of age; (ii) the offender causes a child under the age of fourteen (14) to engage in sodomy with any person or animal; or (iii) sodomy is with a victim who does not consent to the sodomy or causes the victim, without the victim’s consent, to engage with any person or animal under any of the following circumstances: (a) victim is overcome by force or fear; (b) victim is unconscious or physically powerless; (c) victim is incapable of giving consent because of mental deficiency or disease; or (d) victim is incapable of giving consent because of the effect of any alcohol, narcotic drug or other substance, which condition was known or reasonably apparent to offender; or
  • However, in the case of clauses (i) and (ii) above, it is an off-grid person felony if the perpetrator is aged eighteen (18) years old or above.

The statute of limitations is as follows:

  1. For criminal sodomy:
    • When the victim is eighteen (18) years of age or older, prosecution must be commenced within ten (10) years of the occurrence of the violation, or within one (1) year from the date on which the identity of the suspect is conclusively established by DNA testing, whichever is later.
    • When the victim is less than eighteen (18) years of age, prosecution may be commenced at any time.
  2. For aggravated criminal sodomy: A prosecution for aggravated criminal sodomy may be commenced at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: Kan. Stat. § 21-5504.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Kan. Stat. §§ 21-5107, 22-3717.

Note: The portion of the criminal sodomy statute that prohibits consensual acts of anal intercourse between consenting adults (individuals aged 16 or older) of the same sex (Kan. Stat. § 21-5504(a)(1)) was found unconstitutional and unenforceable in State v. Franco, 49 Kan. App. 2d 924, 934-35, 319 P.3d 551, 558 (2014), review denied (Apr. 29, 2015), and new legislation was introduced amending § 21-554(a)(1) to eliminate sodomy between persons who are 16 or more years of age and members of the same sex as a punishable offense.  See 2021 Kansas House Bill No. 2223, Kansas Eighty-Ninth Legislature 2021 Regular Session.
Sexual battery; aggravated sexual battery

Sexual battery is a Class A person misdemeanor. Aggravated sexual battery is a severity Level Five (5) person felony.

The statute of limitations is as follows:

  1. For sexual battery, a prosecution must be commenced within five (5) years after the crime is committed.
  2. For aggravated sexual battery, when the victim is eighteen (18) years of age or older, prosecution must be commenced within ten (10) years of the occurrence of the violation, or one (1) year from the date on which the identity of the suspect is conclusively established by DNA testing, whichever is later. When the victim is less than eighteen (18) years of age, prosecution may be commenced at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: Kan. Stat. § 21-5505.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Kan. Stat. §§ 21-5107; 22-3717.
Indecent liberties with a child; aggravated indecent liberties with a child

This offense is classified as follows:

  • Indecent liberty with a child is a severity Level Five (5) person felony.
  • Aggravated indecent liberties with a child is a severity Level Three (3) or Four (4) person felony, depending upon the circumstances.
  • If, however, the offender is eighteen (18) years or older, and the victim is under the age of fourteen (14), and he/she commits or attempts, conspires or solicits to commit aggravated indecent liberties, this offense constitutes an off-grid person felony.

The statute of limitations is as follows:

  1. Prosecution may be commenced at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: Kan. Stat. § 21-5506.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Kan. Stat. §§ 21-5107, 22-3717.
Unlawful voluntary sexual relations

Unlawful voluntary sexual relations is a severity Level Eight (8),Nine (9) or Ten (10) person felony depending upon the circumstances.

  1. A prosecution must commence within five (5) years after the crime is committed.
  1. Citation for the crime: Kan. Stat. § 21-5507.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Kan. Stat. § 21-5107.

Note: This statute was held unconstitutional by State v. Limon, 280 Kan. 275, 122 P.3d 22 (2005), resulting in the Kansas Supreme Court striking the unconstitutional language, and there is newly proposed legislation that limits the statute’s application to members of the opposite sex. See 2021 Kansas House Bill No. 2347, Kansas Eighty-Ninth Legislature 2021 Regular Session.
Indecent solicitation of a child; aggravated indecent solicitation of a child

Indecent solicitation of a child is a severity Level Six (6) person felony. Aggravated indecent solicitation of a child is a severity Level Five (5) person felony.

  1. Prosecution may be commenced at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: Kan. Stat. § 21-5508.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Kan. Stat. §§ 21-5107.
Electronic solicitation

Electronic solicitation is a severity Level Three (3) person felony if the offender believes the child to be aged fourteen (14) or more years of age but less than sixteen (16), and a severity Level One (1) person felony if the offender believes the child to be under fourteen (14) years of age.

  1. A prosecution must commence within five (5) years after the crime is committed.
  1. Citation for the crime: Kan. Stat. § 21-5509.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Kan. Stat. § 21-5107.
Sexual exploitation of a child

Sexual exploitation of a child is a severity Level Five (5) or Three (3) person felony, or an off-grid person felony, depending upon the circumstances.

  1. Prosecution may be commenced at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: Kan. Stat. § 21-5510.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Kan. Stat. §§ 21-5107 and 22-3717.
Unlawful sexual relations

Unlawful sexual relations is a severity Level Four (4) or Five (5) person felony, depending upon the circumstances.

Prosecution must commence within five (5) years after the crime is committed.
  1. Citation for the crime: Kan. Stat. § 21-5512.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Kan. Stat. § 21-5107.
Internet trading in child pornography; aggravated internet trading in child pornography

Internet trading in child pornography is a severity Level Five (5) person felony. Aggravated internet trading in child pornography is a severity Level Three (3) person felony or an off-grid person felony if the victim is under fourteen (14) years of age.

  1. Prosecution may be commenced at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: Kan. Stat. § 21-5514.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Kan. Stat. § 21-5107.
Incest; aggravated incest

Incest is a severity Level Ten (10) person felony. Aggravated incest is a severity Level Five (5) person felony if it involves sexual intercourse or sodomy, severity Level Three (3) person felony if the victim is the offender’s biological, step or adoptive child, or a severity Level Seven (7) person felony if it involves lewd touching. 

  1. For Incest: Prosecution must commence within five (5) years after the crime is committed.
  2. For Aggravated Incest: When the victim is eighteen (18) years of age or older, prosecution must be commenced within ten (10) years of the occurrence of the violation, or one (1)  year from the date on which the identity of the suspect is conclusively established by DNA testing, whichever is later. When the victim is less than eighteen (18) years of age, prosecution may be commenced at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: Kan. Stat. § 21-5604.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Kan. Stat. § 21-5107
Exposing another to a life threatening communicable disease

Exposing another to a life-threatening communicable disease is a severity Level Seven (7) person felony.

  1. Prosecution must commence within five (5) years after the crime is committed.
  1. Citation for the crime: Kan. Stat. § 21-5424.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Kan. Stat. § 21-5107.
Female genital mutilation

Female genital mutilation is a severity Level Three (3) person felony.

  1. Prosecution must commence within five (5) years after the crime is committed.
  1. Citation for the crime: Kan. Stat. § 21-5431.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Kan. Stat. § 21-5107.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?






Kentucky What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Use of a minor in a sexual performance

  1. Citation for the crime: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 531.310.

  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 500.050.
Rape, first degree

Rape in the first degree is a Class B felony unless the victim is under twelve (12) years old or receives a serious physical injury in which case it is a Class A felony.

  1. Under Kentucky law, this crime is a felony and there is no statute of limitations for any felony.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 510.040.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 500.050.
Rape, second degree

Rape in the second degree is a Class C felony.

  1. Under Kentucky law, this crime is a felony and there is no statute of limitations for any felony.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 510.050.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 500.050.
Rape, third degree

Rape in the third degree is a Class D felony.

  1. Under Kentucky law, this crime is a felony and there is no statute of limitations for any felony.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 510.060.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 500.050.
Sodomy, first degree

Sodomy in the first degree is a Class B felony unless the victim is under twelve (12) years old or receives a serious physical injury in which case it is a Class A felony.

  1. Under Kentucky law, this crime is a felony and there is no statute of limitations for any felony.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 510.070.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 500.050.
Sodomy, second degree

Sodomy in the second degree is a Class C felony.

  1. Under Kentucky law, this crime is a felony and there is no statute of limitations for any felony.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 510.080.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 500.050.
Sodomy, third degree

Sodomy in the third degree is a Class D felony.

  1. Under Kentucky law, this crime is a felony and there is no statute of limitations for any felony.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 510.090.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 500.050.
Sodomy, fourth degree

Note: Commonwealth of Kentucky v. Wasson, 842 S.W.2d 487 (Ky. 1992).

  • This crime was held unconstitutional;
  • Criminal statute proscribing consensual homosexual sodomy violates right of privacy and of equal protection guaranteed by Kentucky Constitution.

This crime is a Class A misdemeanor.

  1. If the victim is over the age of eighteen (18), prosecution of the offense must be commenced within one (1) year after commission of the offense; or
  2. If the victim is under the age of eighteen (18) at the time of the offense, prosecution of the offense must be commenced within ten (10) years after the victim attains the age of eighteen (18) years.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 510.100.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 500.050.
Sexual abuse, first degree

Sexual abuse in the first degree is a Class D felony, unless the victim is less than twelve (12) years old, in which case the offense shall be a Class C felony.

  1. Under Kentucky law, this crime is a felony and there is no statute of limitations for any felony.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 510.110.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 500.050.
Sexual abuse, second degree

Sexual abuse in the second degree is a Class A misdemeanor.

  1. If the victim is over the age of eighteen (18), prosecution of the offense must be commenced within one (1) year after commission of the offense; or
  2. If the victim is under the age of eighteen (18) at the time of the offense, prosecution of the offense must be commenced within ten (10) years after the victim attains the age of eighteen (18).
  1. Citation for the crime: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 510.120.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 500.050.
Sexual abuse, third degree

Sexual abuse in the third degree is a Class B misdemeanor.

  1. If the victim is over the age of eighteen (18), prosecution of the offense must be commenced within one (1) year after commission of the offense; or
  2. If the victim is under the age of eighteen (18) at the time of the offense, prosecution of the offense must be commenced within ten (10) years after the victim attains the age of eighteen (18).
  1. Citation for the crime: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 510.130.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 500.050.
Sexual misconduct

Sexual misconduct is a Class A misdemeanor.

  1. If the victim is over the age of eighteen (18), prosecution of the offense must be commenced within one (1) year after commission of the offense; or
  2. If the victim is under the age of eighteen (18) at the time of the offense, prosecution of the offense must be commenced within ten (10) years after the victim attains the age of eighteen (18).
  1. Citation for the crime: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 510.140.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 500.050.
Indecent Exposure, first degree

Indecent exposure in the first degree is a: 

 

  • Class B misdemeanor for the first offense;
  • Class A misdemeanor for the second offense, if it was committed within three (3) years of the first conviction;
  • Class D felony for the third offense, if it was committed within three (3) years of the second conviction; and
  • Class D felony for any subsequent offense, if it was committed within three (3) years of the prior conviction.

The statute of limitations for this crime depends on the crime’s classification. See above for further detail.

  1. If a Felony: There is no statute of limitations for any felony.
  2. If a Misdemeanor: (a) If the victim is under the age of eighteen (18) at the time of the commission of the offense, the prosecution of the offense must be commenced within ten (10) years after the victim turns eighteen (18) years of age; (b) If the victim is over the age of eighteen (18), prosecution of the offense must be commenced within one (1) year after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 510.148.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 500.050.
Indecent Exposure, second degree

Indecent exposure in the second degree is a Class B misdemeanor.

  1. If the victim is over the age of eighteen (18), prosecution of the offense must be commenced within one (1) year after commission of the offense; or
  2. If the victim is under the age of eighteen (18) at the time of the offense, prosecution of the offense must be commenced within ten (10) years after the victim attains the age of eighteen (18).
  1. Citation for the crime: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 510.150.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 500.050.
Unlawful use of electronic means to induce a minor to engage in sexual or other prohibited activities

Unlawful use of electronic means originating or received within the Commonwealth to induce a minor to engage in sexual or other prohibited activities is a Class D or Class C felony, depending on the circumstances.

  1. Under Kentucky law, this crime is a felony and there is no statute of limitations for any felony.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 510.155.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 500.050.
Incest

Incest is a Class A, B, or C felony, depending upon the circumstances.

  1. Under Kentucky law, this crime is a felony and there is no statute of limitations for any felony.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 530.020.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 500.050.
Voyeurism

Voyeurism is a Class A misdemeanor.

  1. If the victim is over the age of eighteen (18), prosecution of the offense must be commenced within one (1) year after commission of the offense; or
  2. If the victim is under the age of eighteen (18) at the time of the offense, prosecution of the offense must be commenced within ten (10) years after the victim attains the age of eighteen (18).
  1. Citation for the crime: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 531.090.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 500.050.
Distribution of obscene matter to minors

Distribution of obscene materials to minors is a Class A misdemeanor unless the defendant has previously been convicted of violation of this section or of Ky. Rev. Stat. § 531.020 (distribution of obscene matter), in which case it shall be a Class D felony.

  1. If a Felony: There is no statute of limitations for any felony.
  2. If a Misdemeanor: (a) If the victim is over the age of eighteen (18), prosecution of the offense must be commenced within one (1) year after commission of the offense; or (b) if the victim is under the age of eighteen (18) at the time of the offense, prosecution of the offense must be commenced within ten (10) years after the victim attains the age of eighteen (18).
  1. Citation for the crime: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 531.030.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 500.050.
Video voyeurism

Video voyeurism is a Class D felony.

  1. Under Kentucky law, this crime is a felony and there is no statute of limitations for any felony.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 531.100.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 500.050.
Promoting a sexual performance by a minor

Promoting a sexual performance by a minor is a Class A, B, or C felony, depending upon the circumstances.

  1. Under Kentucky law, this crime is a felony and there is no statute of limitations for any felony.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 531.310.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 500.050.
Possession or viewing of matter portraying a sexual performance by a minor
  1. Citation for the crime: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 531.335.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 500.050.
Unlawful transaction with a minor in the first degree

Unlawful transaction with a minor in the first degree is a Class A, B, or C felony, depending upon the circumstances.

  1. Under Kentucky law, this crime is a felony and there is no statute of limitations for any felony.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 530.064 (1)(a) .

  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 500.050.
Distribution of matter portraying a sexual performance by a minor

Distribution of matter portraying a sexual performance by a minor is a Class C or D felony, depending upon the circumstances.

  1. Under Kentucky law, this crime is a felony and there is no statute of limitations for any felony.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 531.340.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 500.050.
Promoting sale of material portraying a sexual performance by a minor

Promoting sale of matter portraying a sexual performance by a minor is a Class A misdemeanor for the first offense, a Class D felony for the second offense, and a Class C felony for each subsequent offense.

  1. If a Class D felony: there is no statute of limitations for any felony.
  2. If a Class A misdemeanor: Prosecution of the offense must be commenced within ten (10) years after the victim attains the age of eighteen (18).
  1. Citation for the crime: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 531.350.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 500.050.
Advertising material portraying a sexual performance by a minor

Advertising material portraying a sexual performance by a minor is a Class D felony for the first offense and a Class C felony for each subsequent offense.

  1. Under Kentucky law, this crime is a felony and there is no statute of limitations for any felony.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 531.360.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ky. Rev. Stat. § 500.050.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?






Louisiana What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
First degree rape
  1. There is no time limit upon the initiation of prosecution for first degree rape.
  2. For attempted first degree rape that involves a victim under eighteen (18) years of age, prosecution must commence within thirty (30) years from the date that the victim attains the age of eighteen (18).
  1. Citation for the crime: La. Rev. Stat. § 14:42. This statute was amended on August 1, 2015, and what was previously deemed “aggravated rape” is now first degree rape.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 571 and 571.1.

Note: This statute was held unconstitutional by Kennedy v. Louisiana, 554 U.S. 407 (2008), because it allows for the imposition of the death penalty for a crime in which the victim did not die and the victim’s death was not intended.
Second degree rape
  1. There is no time limit upon the initiation of prosecution for second degree rape.
  2. For attempted second degree rape that involves a victim under eighteen (18) years of age, prosecution must commence within thirty (30) years from the date that the victim attains the age of eighteen (18).
  1. Citation for the crime: La. Rev. Stat. § 14:42.1. This statute was amended on August 1, 2015, and what was previously deemed “forcible rape” is now second degree rape.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 571. and 571.1.
Third degree rape
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator must commence within six (6) years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: La. Rev. Stat. § 14:43.  This statute was amended on August 1, 2015, and what was previously deemed “simple rape” is now third degree rape.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 572.   
Sexual battery
  1. If the offense was committed against a victim under eighteen (18), then prosecution must commence within thirty (30) years from the date that the victim attains the age of eighteen (18); or
  2. If the offender is seventeen (17) years of age or older and any of the following exist: (i) the act is without consent of the victim and the victim is prevented from resisting the act because (A) the victim is physically incapable of preventing the act due to a physical disability or (B) the victim is incapable, through unsoundness of mind, of understanding the nature of the act, and the offender knew or should have known of the victim’s incapacity or (ii) the act is without consent of the victim, and the victim is sixty-five (65) years of age or older, then prosecution must commence within six (6) years after commission of the offense; or
  3. If none of the above criteria are met, then prosecution must commence within four (4) years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: La. Rev. Stat. § 14:43.1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 572; La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 571.1.
Second degree sexual battery
  1. If the offense was committed against a victim under eighteen (18), then prosecution must commence within thirty (30) years from the date that the victim attains the age of eighteen (18); or
  2. If the offender is seventeen (17) years of age or older and any of the following exist: (i) the victim is physically incapable of preventing the act due to a physical disability, (ii) the victim is incapable, through unsoundness of mind, of understanding the nature of the act, and the offender knew or should have known of the victim’s incapacity or (iii) the victim is sixty-five (65) years of age or older, then prosecution must commence within six (6) years after commission of the offense; or
  3. If none of the above criteria are met, then prosecution must commence within four (4) years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: La. Rev. Stat. § 14:43.2.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 572; La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 571.1.
Oral sexual battery
  1. If the offense was committed against a victim under eighteen (18), then prosecution must commence within thirty (30) years from the date that the victim attains the age of eighteen (18); or
  2. If the offender is seventeen (17) years of age or older and any of the following exist: (i) the act is without consent of the victim and the victim is prevented from resisting the act because (A) the victim is physically incapable of preventing the act due to a physical disability or (B) the victim is incapable, through unsoundness of mind, of understanding the nature of the act, and the offender knew or should have known of the victim’s incapacity or (ii) the act is without consent of the victim, and the victim is sixty-five (65) years of age or older, then prosecution must commence within six (6) years after commission of the offense; or
  3. If none of the above criteria are met, then prosecution must commence within four (4) years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: La. Rev. Stat. § 14:43.3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 572; La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 571.1.
Female genital mutilation
  1. Prosecution must commence within four (4) years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: La. Rev. Stat. § 14:43.4.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 572.
Intentional exposure to HIV
  1. Prosecution must commence within four (4) years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: La. Rev. Stat. § 14:43.5.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 572.
Crime Against Nature
  1. If the offense was committed against a victim under eighteen (18), then prosecution must commence within thirty (30) years from the date that the victim attains the age of eighteen (18); or
  2. If the offense is between an ascendant and descendant, or between brother and sister, then prosecution must commence within six (6) years after commission of the offense; or
  3. If none of the above criteria are met, then prosecution must commence within four (4) years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: La. Rev. Stat. § 14:89.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 572; La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 571.1.
Aggravated Crime Against Nature
  1. If the offense was committed against a victim under eighteen (18), then prosecution must commence within thirty (30) years from the date that the victim attains the age of eighteen (18); or
  2. For a felony necessarily punishable by imprisonment at hard labor, within six (6) years after commission of the offense; or
  3. For a felony not necessarily punishable by imprisonment at hard labor, within four (4) years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: La. Rev. Stat. § 14:89.1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 572; La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 571.1.
Felony carnal knowledge of a juvenile
  1. Prosecution must commence within thirty (30) years from the date that the victim attains the age of eighteen (18).
  1. Citation for the crime: La. Rev. Stat. § 14:80.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 572;  La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 571.1.
Misdemeanor carnal knowledge of a juvenile
  1. Prosecution must commence within two (2) years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: La. Rev. Stat. § 14:80.1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 572.
Indecent behavior with juveniles
  1. Prosecution must commence within four (4) years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: La. Rev. Stat. § 14:81.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 572; La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 571.1; La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 575.
Molestation of a juvenile or a person with a physical or mental disability
  1. If the offense was committed against a victim under eighteen (18), then prosecution must commence within thirty (30) years from the date that the victim attains the age of eighteen (18); or
  2. If the offense was committed against a person with a physical or mental disability, then prosecution must commence within six (6) years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: La. Rev. Stat. § 14:81.2.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 572; La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 571.1; La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 572.
Prohibited sexual conduct between educator and student
  1. For the first time offense, prosecution must commence within two (2) years after commission of the offense.
  2. For a second or subsequent offense, prosecution must commence within four (4) years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: La. Rev. Stat. § 14:81.4.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 572; La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 575.
Pornography involving juveniles
  1. Prosecution must commence within thirty (30) years from the date that the victim attains the age of eighteen (18).
  1. Citation for the crime: La. Rev. Stat. § 14:81.1
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 572; La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 571.1.
Sexting

This crime applies to those under the age of seventeen (17).

  1. Prosecution must commence within two (2) years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: La. Rev. Stat. § 14:81.1.1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 572.
Anything else I should know?
Computer-aided solicitation of a minor
  1. If the offense was committed against a victim under eighteen (18), then prosecution must commence within thirty (30) years from the date that the victim attains the age of eighteen (18); or
  2. For a felony necessarily punishable by imprisonment at hard labor, prosecution must commence within six (6) years after commission of the offense; or
  3. For a felony not necessarily punishable by imprisonment at hard labor, prosecution must commence within four (4) years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: La. Rev. Stat. § 14:81.3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 572; La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 571.1.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Misdemeanor sexual battery
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator must commence within two (2) years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: La. Rev. Stat. § 14:43.1.1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: La. Code Crim. Proc. art. 572.






Maine What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Gross sexual assault

Gross sexual assault is a Class A, B, or C crime depending upon the circumstances. 

  1. If the victim was under age eighteen (18) at the time of the commission of the offense, there is no time limit to commence legal proceedings against the perpetrator for this crime; or
  2. If the victim was aged eighteen (18) or older at the time the offense was committed, prosecution must be commenced within twenty (20) years after the offense was committed.
 
  1. statute was amended by 2017 Me. Legis. Serv. Ch. 300 (S.P. 216) (L.D. 654) (WEST) effective as of November 1, 2017 and 2023 Me. Legis. Serv. Ch. 280 (S.P. 662) (L.D. 1657) (WEST) effective June 23, 2023. The amendment does not affect the information provided here. This crime was formerly called “gross sexual misconduct.”
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 17-A, § 8. This statute was amended by 2023 Me. Legis. Serv. Ch. 475 (S.P. 715) (L.D. 1790) (WEST) effective July 27, 2023.
 
Sexual abuse of minors

Sexual abuse of minors is a Class C, D, or E crime depending upon the circumstances.

  • Class C crime if:
    • the actor engages in a sexual act with another person, not the actor’s spouse, who is either fourteen (14) or fifteen (15) years of age and the actor is at least five (5) years older than the other person, and
      • the actor knows that the other person is related to the actor within the 2nd degree of consanguinity; or
      • the actor is at least ten (10) years older than the other person.
    • Class D crime if:
      • the actor engages in a sexual act with another person, not the actor’s spouse, who is either fourteen (14) or fifteen (15) years of age and the actor is at least five (5) years older than the other person; or
      • the actor is at least twenty-one (21) years of age and engages in a sexual act with another person, not the actor’s spouse, who is either sixteen (16) or seventeen (17) years of age and is a student enrolled in a private or public elementary, secondary or special education school, facility or institution and the actor is a teacher, employee or other official in the school district, school union, educational unit, school, facility or institution in which the student is enrolled, and
        • the actor knows that the student is related to the actor within the 2nd degree of consanguinity, or
        • the actor is at least ten (10) years older than the student.
    • Class E crime if:
      • the actor is at least twenty-one (21) years of age and engages in a sexual act with another person, not the actor’s spouse, who is either sixteen (16) or seventeen (17) years of age and is a student enrolled in a private or public elementary, secondary or special education school, facility or institution and the actor is a teacher, employee or other official in the school district, school union, educational unit, school, facility or institution in which the student is enrolled.

The statute of limitations is as follows:

  1. There is no time limit to commence legal proceedings against the perpetrator for this crime.
 
  1. Citation for the crime: Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 17-A, § 254.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 17-A, § 8. This statute was amended by 2023 Me. Legis. Serv. Ch. 475 (S.P. 715) (L.D. 1790) (WEST) effective July 27, 2023.
 
Unlawful sexual contact

Unlawful sexual contact is a Class A, B, C, or D crime depending upon the circumstances.

  • Class A crime if:
    • the actor intentionally subjects another person to any sexual contact and:
      • the other person, not the actor’s spouse, is in fact less than twelve (12) years of age and the actor is at least three (3) years older and the sexual contact includes penetration.
    • Class B crime if:
      • the actor intentionally subjects another person to any sexual contact and:
        • the other person, not the actor’s spouse, is in fact less than twelve (12) years of age and the actor is at least three (3) years older;
        • the other person, not the actor’s spouse, is in fact less than fourteen (14) years of age and the actor is at least three (3) years older and the sexual contact includes penetration;
        • the other person is in fact less than eighteen (18) years of age and the actor is a parent, stepparent, foster parent, guardian or other similar person responsible for the long-term general care and welfare of that other person and the sexual contact includes penetration; or
        • the other person submits as a result of compulsion and the sexual contact includes penetration.
      • Class C crime if:
        • the actor intentionally subjects another person to any sexual conduct and:
          • the other person has not consented to the sexual contact, the actor is criminally negligent with regard to whether the other person has acquiesced and the sexual contact includes penetration;
          • the other person is unconscious or otherwise physically incapable of resisting and has not consented to the sexual contact and the sexual contact includes penetration;
          • the other person, not the actor’s spouse, is in fact less than fourteen (14) years of age and the actor is at least three (3) years older;
          • the other person suffers from a mental disability that is reasonably apparent or known to the actor that in fact renders the other person substantially incapable of appraising the nature of the contact involved or of understanding that the other person has the right to deny or withdraw consent and the sexual contact includes penetration;
          • the other person, not the actor’s spouse, is under official supervision as a probationer, a parolee, a sex offender on supervised release, a prisoner on supervised community confinement status or a juvenile on community reintegration status or is detained in a hospital, prison or other institution and the actor has supervisory or disciplinary authority over the other person and the sexual contact includes penetration;
          • the other person, not the actor’s spouse, is a student enrolled in a private or public elementary, secondary or special education school, facility or institution and the actor is a teacher, employee or other official having instructional, supervisory or disciplinary authority over the student and the sexual contact includes penetration or the actor was a substitute teacher who had instructional, supervisory or disciplinary authority over the student at any time during the twelve (12) months prior to the sexual contact and the sexual contact included penetration;
          • the other person is in fact less than eighteen (18) years of age and the actor is a parent, stepparent, foster parent, guardian or other similar person responsible for the long-term general care and welfare of that other person;
          • the other person submits as a result of compulsion;
          • the actor owns, operates or is an employee of an organization, program or residence that is operated, administered, licensed or funded by the Department of Health and Human Services and the other person, not the actor’s spouse, receives services from the organization, program or residence and the organization, program or residence recognizes that other person as a person with an intellectual disability or autism and the sexual contact includes penetration;
          • the actor owns, operates or is an employee of an organization, program or residence that is operated, administered, licensed or funded by the Department of Health and Human Services and the other person, not the actor’s spouse, receives services from the organization, program or residence and suffers from a mental disability that is reasonably apparent or known to the actor and the sexual contact includes penetration;
          • the actor is a psychiatrist, a psychologist or licensed as a social worker or counseling professional or purports to be a psychiatrist, a psychologist or licensed as a social worker or counseling professional to the other person and the other person, not the actor’s spouse, is a current patient or client of the actor and the sexual contact includes penetration; or
          • the actor is employed to provide care to a dependent person, who is not the actor’s spouse or domestic partner and who is unable to perform self-care because of advanced age or physical or mental disease, disorder or defect and the sexual contact includes penetration.
        • Class D crime if:
          • the actor intentionally subjects another person to any sexual contact and:
            • the other person has not consented to the sexual contact and the actor is criminally negligent with regard to whether the other person has acquiesced;
            • the other person is unconscious or otherwise physically incapable of resisting and has not consented to the sexual contact;
            • the other person, not the actor’s spouse, is in fact either fourteen (14) or fifteen (15) years of age and the actor is at least ten (10) years older than the other person;
            • the other person suffers from a mental disability that is reasonably apparent or known to the actor that in fact renders the other person substantially incapable of appraising the nature of the contact involved or of understanding that the other person has the right to deny or withdraw consent;
            • the other person, not the actor’s spouse, is under official supervision as a probationer, a parolee, a sex offender on supervised release, a prisoner on supervised community confinement status or a juvenile on community reintegration status or is detained in a hospital, prison or other institution and the actor has supervisory or disciplinary authority over the other person;
            • the other person, not the actor’s spouse, is a student enrolled in a private or public elementary, secondary or special education school, facility or institution and the actor is a teacher, employee or other official having instructional, supervisory or disciplinary authority over the student or the actor was a substitute teacher who had instructional, supervisory or disciplinary authority over the student at any time during the twelve (12) months prior to the sexual contact;
            • the actor owns, operates or is an employee of an organization, program or residence that is operated, administered, licensed or funded by the Department of Health and Human Services and the other person, not the actor’s spouse, receives services from the organization, program or residence and the organization, program or residence recognizes that other person as a person with an intellectual disability or autism;
            • the actor owns, operates or is an employee of an organization, program or residence that is operated, administered, licensed or funded by the Department of Health and Human Services and the other person, not the actor’s spouse, receives services from the organization, program or residence and suffers from a mental disability that is reasonably apparent or known to the actor;
            • the other person, not the actor’s spouse, is in fact less than eighteen (18) years of age and is a student enrolled in a private or public elementary, secondary or special education school, facility or institution and the actor, who is at least twenty-one (21) years of age, is a teacher, employee or other official in the school district, school union, educational unit, school, facility or institution in which the student is enrolled and the sexual contact includes penetration;
            • the actor is a psychiatrist, a psychologist or licensed as a social worker or counseling professional or purports to be a psychiatrist, a psychologist or licensed as a social worker or counseling professional to the other person and the other person, not the actor’s spouse, is a current patient or client of the actor; or
            • the actor is employed to provide care to a dependent person, who is not the actor’s spouse or domestic partner and who is unable to perform self-care because of advanced age or physical or mental disease, disorder or defect.

     The statute of limitations is as follows:

  1. If the victim was under age eighteen (18) at the time of the commission of the offense, there is no time limit to commence legal proceedings against the perpetrator for this crime; or
  2. For a Class A, B, or C crime involving unlawful sexual contact, prosecution must be commenced within twenty (20) years after the commission of the offense; or
  3. For Class D crimes, prosecution must be commenced within three (3) years after the commission of the offense.
 
  1. Citation for the crime: Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 17-A, § 255-A. This statute was amended by 2023 Me. Legis. Serv. Ch. 280 (S.P. 662) (L.D. 1657) (WEST).
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 17-A, § 8. This statute was amended by 2023 Me. Legis. Serv. Ch. 475 (S.P. 715) (L.D. 1790) (WEST) effective July 27, 2023.
 
Unlawful sexual touching

Unlawful sexual touching is a Class A or D crime.

  1. If the victim was under age eighteen (18) at the time of the commission of the offense, there is no time limit to commence legal proceedings against the perpetrator for this crime; or
  2. If the victim was aged eighteen (18) or older at the time the offense was committed, prosecution must be commenced within three (3) years after the offense was committed.
 
  1. Citation for the crime: Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 17-A, § 260. This statute was amended by 2023 Me. Legis. Serv. Ch. 280 (S.P. 662) (L.D. 1657) (WEST) effective June 23, 2023.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 17-A, § 8. This statute was amended by 2023 Me. Legis. Serv. Ch. 475 (S.P. 715) (L.D. 1790) (WEST) effective July 27, 2023.
 
Sexual exploitation of minor

Sexual exploitation of minor is a Class A or B crime, depending upon the circumstances.

  1. There is no time limit to commence legal proceedings against the perpetrator for this crime.
 
  1. Citation for the crime: Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 17-A, § 282.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 17-A, § 8. This statute was amended by 2023 Me. Legis. Serv. Ch. 475 (S.P. 715) (L.D. 1790) (WEST) effective July 27, 2023.
 
Incest

Incest is a Class C or D crime, depending upon the circumstances.

  • Class C crime if:
    • the person is at least eighteen (18) years of age and:
      • engages in sexual intercourse with another person who the actor knows is related to the actor within the 2nd degree of consanguinity, and at the time of the incest, the person has two (2) or more prior Maine convictions under this section or for engaging in substantially similar conduct to that contained in this section in another jurisdiction.
    • Class D crime if
      • the person is at least eighteen (18) years of age and engages in sexual intercourse with another person who the actor knows is related to the actor within the 2nd degree of consanguinity.

 The statute of limitations is as follows:

  1. If the victim was under age eighteen (18) at the time of the commission of the offense, there is no time limit to commence legal proceedings against the perpetrator for this crime; or
  2. If the victim was aged eighteen (18) or older at the time of the commission of the offense: Prosecution must commence within six (6) years after the commission of the offense if a Class C crime; or within three (3) years after the commission of the offense if a Class D crime.
 
  1. Citation for the crime: Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 17-A, § 556.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 17-A, § 8. This statute was amended by 2023 Me. Legis. Serv. Ch. 475 (S.P. 715) (L.D. 1790) (WEST) effective July 27, 2023.
 
Indecent Conduct

Indecent conduct is a Class D or E crime, depending upon the circumstances

  1. Prosecution must commence within three (3) years after the commission of the offense.
 
  1. Citation for the crime: Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 17-A, § 854.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 17-A, § 8. This statute was amended by 2023 Me. Legis. Serv. Ch. 475 (S.P. 715) (L.D. 1790) (WEST) effective July 27, 2023.
 
Sexual misconduct with a child under 14

This crime is classified as a:

  1. Class C crime if offender is at least eighteen (18) years of age, victim is under age twelve (12), and the offender knowingly displays any sexually explicit materials to victim with the intent to encourage victim to engage in a sexual act or sexual conduct; or
  2. Class D crime if offender is at least eighteen (18) years of age, victim is under age fourteen (14), and the offender knowingly displays any sexually explicit materials to victim with the intent to encourage victim to engage in a sexual act or sexual conduct.

The statute of limitations for this crime depends on the classification above. 

  1. For Class C crimes, prosecution must be commenced within six (6) years after the commission of the offense; or
  2. For Class D crimes, prosecution must be commenced within three (3) years after the commission of the offense.
 
  1. Citation for the crime: Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 17-A, § 258.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 17-A, § 8. This statute was amended by 2023 Me. Legis. Serv. Ch. 475 (S.P. 715) (L.D. 1790) (WEST) effective July 27, 2023.
 
Anything else I should know?
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Visual sexual aggression against a child

Visual sexual aggression against a child is a Class C or D crime, depending upon the circumstances.

  • Class C crime if:
    • for the purpose of arousing or gratifying sexual desire, the actor, having in fact attained eighteen (18) years of age, exposes the actor’s genitals to another person or causes the other person to expose that person’s genitals to the actor and the other person, not the actor’s spouse, has not in fact attained twelve (12) years of age; or if
    • for the purpose of arousing or gratifying sexual desire, the actor, having in fact attained eighteen (18) years of age, intentionally engages in visual surveillance, aided or unaided by mechanical or electronic equipment, of the uncovered breasts, buttocks, genitals, anus or pubic area of another person, not the actor’s spouse and not having in fact attained twelve (12) years of age, under circumstances in which a reasonable person would expect to be safe from such visual surveillance.
  • Class D crime if:
    • for the purpose of arousing or gratifying sexual desire or for the purpose of causing affront or alarm, the actor, having in fact attained eighteen (18) years of age, exposes the actor’s genitals to another person or causes the other person to expose that person’s genitals to the actor and the other person, not the actor’s spouse, has not in fact attained fourteen (14) years of age; or if
    • for the purpose of arousing or gratifying sexual desire, the actor, having in fact attained eighteen (18) years of age, intentionally engages in visual surveillance, aided or unaided by mechanical or electronic equipment, of the uncovered breasts, buttocks, genitals, anus or pubic area of another person, not the actor’s spouse and not having in fact attained fourteen (14) years of age, under circumstances in which a reasonable person would expect to be safe from such visual surveillance.

The statute of limitations is as follows:

  1. For a Class C crime, prosecution must be commenced within six (6) years after the commission of the offense.
  2. For a Class D crime, prosecution must be commenced within three (3) years after the commission of the offense.
 
  1. Citation for the crime: Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 17-A, § 256.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 17-A, § 8. This statute was amended by 2023 Me. Legis. Serv. Ch. 475 (S.P. 715) (L.D. 1790) (WEST) effective July 27, 2023.
 
Sex trafficking

Sex trafficking is a Class C or D crime, depending upon the circumstances.

  1. For a Class C crime, prosecution must be commenced within six (6) years after the commission of the offense.
  2. For a Class D crime, prosecution must be commenced within three (3) years after the commission of the offense.
 
  1. Citation for the crime: Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 17-A, § 853. This statute was amended by 2023 Me. Legis. Serv. Ch. 316 (H.P. 931) (L.D. 1435) (WEST) effective June 26, 2023.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 17-A, § 8. This statute was amended by 2023 Me. Legis. Serv. Ch. 475 (S.P. 715) (L.D. 1790) (WEST) effective July 27, 2023.
 
Aggravated sex trafficking

Sex trafficking is a Class A or B crime, depending upon the circumstances.

  1. Prosecution must commence within six  (6) years after the commission of the offense.
 
  1. Citation for the crime: Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 17-A, § 852.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 17-A, § 8. This statute was amended by 2023 Me. Legis. Serv. Ch. 475 (S.P. 715) (L.D. 1790) (WEST) effective July 27, 2023.
 






Maryland What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Rape, first degree

There is no time limit to commence prosecution for any felonies, such as this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime:  Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-303.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Massey v. State, 320 Md. 605, 610, 579 A.2d 265, 267 (Md. 1990); State v. Renfro, 223 Md. App. 779 (2015), cert. denied, 445 Md. 6, 122 A.3d 976 (2015) (“Maryland has no statute of limitations on felonies.”).
Rape, second degree

There is no time limit to commence prosecution for any felonies, such as this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime:  Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-304.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Massey v. State, 320 Md. 605, 610, 579 A.2d 265, 267 (Md. 1990); State v. Renfro, 223 Md. App. 779 (2015), cert. denied, 445 Md. 6, 122 A.3d 976 (2015) (“Maryland has no statute of limitations on felonies.”).
Sexual offense, first degree

This crime has been repealed effective October 1, 2017

This crime has been repealed effective October 1, 2017
Sexual offense, second degree

This crime has been repealed effective October 1, 2017

This crime has been repealed effective October 1, 2017
Sexual offense, third degree

There is no time limit to commence prosecution for any felonies, such as this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime:  Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-307.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Massey v. State, 320 Md. 605, 610, 579 A.2d 265, 267 (Md. 1990); State v. Renfro, 223 Md. App. 779 (2015), cert. denied, 445 Md. 6, 122 A.3d 976 (2015) (“Maryland has no statute of limitations on felonies.”).
Sexual offense, fourth degree
  1. If offender is in a position of authority at a school or the victim was a minor at the time of the offense, then prosecution must commence within three (3) years after commission of the offense; or
  2. For other violations of the statute, prosecution must commence within one (1) year after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime:  Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-308.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-106(z); In re Anthony R., 362 Md. 51, 73, 763 A.2d 136, 148 (2000).
Attempted rape, first degree

There is no time limit to commence prosecution for any felonies, such as this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime:  Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-309.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Massey v. State, 320 Md. 605, 610, 579 A.2d 265, 267 (Md. 1990); State v. Renfro, 223 Md. App. 779 (2015), cert. denied, 445 Md. 6, 122 A.3d 976 (2015) (“Maryland has no statute of limitations on felonies.”).
Attempted rape, second degree

There is no time limit to commence prosecution for any felonies, such as this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime:  Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-310.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Massey v. State, 320 Md. 605, 610, 579 A.2d 265, 267 (Md. 1990); State v. Renfro, 223 Md. App. 779 (2015), cert. denied, 445 Md. 6, 122 A.3d 976 (2015) (“Maryland has no statute of limitations on felonies.”).
Attempted sexual offense, first degree

This crime has been repealed effective October 1, 2017

This crime has been repealed effective October 1, 2017
Attempted sexual offense, second degree

This crime has been repealed effective October 1, 2017

This crime has been repealed effective October 1, 2017
Sexual conduct between correctional or juvenile justice employee and inmate or confined child
  1. There is no time limit to commence prosecution for any misdemeanors punishable by imprisonment, such as this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime:  Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-314.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-106(b); In re Anthony R., 362 Md. 51, 73, 763 A.2d 136, 148 (2000).
Continuing course of conduct with child

There is no time limit to commence prosecution for any felonies, such as this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime:  Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-315.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Massey v. State, 320 Md. 605, 610, 579 A.2d 265, 267 (Md. 1990); State v. Renfro, 223 Md. App. 779 (2015), cert. denied, 445 Md. 6, 122 A.3d 976 (2015) (“Maryland has no statute of limitations on felonies.”).
Sodomy

This crime has been repealed effective October 1, 2020.

This crime has been repealed effective October 1, 2020.
Unnatural or perverted sexual practice
  1. This crime has been repealed effective October 1, 2023.
  1. This crime has been repealed effective October 1, 2023.
Incest

There is no time limit to commence prosecution for any felonies, such as this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime:  Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-323.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Massey v. State, 320 Md. 605, 610, 579 A.2d 265, 267 (Md. 1990); State v. Renfro, 223 Md. App. 779 (2015), cert. denied, 445 Md. 6, 122 A.3d 976 (2015) (“Maryland has no statute of limitations on felonies.”).
Sexual abuse of a minor

There is no time limit to commence prosecution for any felonies, such as this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime:  Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-602.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Massey v. State, 320 Md. 605, 610, 579 A.2d 265, 267 (Md. 1990); State v. Renfro, 223 Md. App. 779 (2015), cert. denied, 445 Md. 6, 122 A.3d 976 (2015) (“Maryland has no statute of limitations on felonies.”).
Indecent exposure
  1. There is no time limit to commence prosecution for any misdemeanors punishable by imprisonment, such as this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime:  Md. Code, Crim. Law § 11-107.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-106(b); In re Anthony R., 362 Md. 51, 73, 763 A.2d 136, 148 (2000).
Knowing transfer of HIV
  1. There is no time limit to commence prosecution for any misdemeanors punishable by imprisonment, such as this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime:  Md. Code, Health Gen. § 18-601.1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-106(b); In re Anthony R., 362 Md. 51, 73, 763 A.2d 136, 148 (2000).
Possession of visual representation of child under 16 engaged in certain sexual acts
  1. There is no time limit to commence prosecution for any misdemeanors punishable by imprisonment, such as this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime:  Md. Code, Crim. Law § 11-208.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Smallwood v. State, 51 Md.App. at 468, 443 A.2d at 1006 (Md. Sp. App. 1982); Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-106; In re Anthony R., 362 Md. 51, 73, 763 A.2d 136, 148 (2000).
Child pornography

There is no time limit to commence prosecution for any felonies, such as this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime:  Md. Code, Crim. Law § 11-207.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Massey v. State, 320 Md. 605, 610, 579 A.2d 265, 267 (Md. 1990); State v. Renfro, 223 Md. App. 779 (2015), cert. denied, 445 Md. 6, 122 A.3d 976 (2015) (“Maryland has no statute of limitations on felonies.”).
Sex Trafficking

There is no time limit to commence prosecution for any felonies or misdemeanors punishable by imprisonment in penitentiary, such as this crime.  (Although the crime is classified as a felony where the victim is a minor, and a penitentiary misdemeanor if the victim is not a minor, there is no difference with regards to the statute of limitations).
  1. Citation for the crime:  Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-1102.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-106(b) Massey v. State, 320 Md. 605, 610, 579 A.2d 265, 267 (Md. 1990); State v. Renfro, 223 Md. App. 779 (2015), cert. denied, 445 Md. 6, 122 A.3d 976 (2015) (“Maryland has no statute of limitations on felonies.”); In re Anthony R., 362 Md. 51, 73, 763 A.2d 136, 148 (2000).
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?
Sexual solicitation of minor-Solicitation through parent, guardian, or custodian
  1. There is no time limit to commence prosecution for any felonies, such as this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime:  Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-324.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Massey v. State, 320 Md. 605, 610, 579 A.2d 265, 267 (Md. 1990); State v. Renfro, 223 Md. App. 779 (2015), cert. denied, 445 Md. 6, 122 A.3d 976 (2015) (“Maryland has no statute of limitations on felonies.”).
Revenge Porn Prohibited
  1. There is no time limit to commence prosecution for any misdemeanors punishable by imprisonment, such as this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Code, Crim. Law § 3-809.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-106(b); In re Anthony R., 362 Md. 51, 73, 763 A.2d 136, 148 (2000).
Use of personal identifying information to invite, encourage, or solicit another to commit sexual crime
  1. There is no time limit to commence prosecution for any felonies, such as this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime:  Md. Code, Crim. Law § 3-325.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Massey v. State, 320 Md. 605, 610, 579 A.2d 265, 267 (Md. 1990); State v. Renfro, 223 Md. App. 779 (2015), cert. denied, 445 Md. 6, 122 A.3d 976 (2015) (“Maryland has no statute of limitations on felonies.”).
Hiring a minor for a prohibited purpose
  1. There is no time limit to commence prosecution for any misdemeanors punishable by imprisonment, such as this crime.
Persuasion, enticement or aid in persuasion or enticement of individuals under age of 16
  1. There is no time limit to commence prosecution for any felonies, such as this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime:  Md. Code, Crim. Law § 11-305.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Massey v. State, 320 Md. 605, 610, 579 A.2d 265, 267 (Md. 1990); State v. Renfro, 223 Md. App. 779 (2015), cert. denied, 445 Md. 6, 122 A.3d 976 (2015) (“Maryland has no statute of limitations on felonies.”).
Female genital mutilation
  1. There is no time limit to commence prosecution for any felonies, such as this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime:  Md. Code Ann., Health-Gen. § 20-601-603.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Massey v. State, 320 Md. 605, 610, 579 A.2d 265, 267 (Md. 1990); State v. Renfro, 223 Md. App. 779 (2015), cert. denied, 445 Md. 6, 122 A.3d 976 (2015) (“Maryland has no statute of limitations on felonies.”).






Massachusetts What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Open and gross lewdness and lascivious behavior
  1. An indictment must be found and filed within 6 years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 272, § 16.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 277, § 63.
Wanton or reckless behavior creating a risk of serious bodily injury or sexual abuse to a child
  1. There is no time limit to commence legal proceedings against the perpetrator for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 265, § 13L.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 277, § 63.
Rape
  1. Legal proceedings against perpetrator must commence within 15 years after commission of the offense;
  2. If the victim is under 16 at the time the crime is committed, the period of limitation for prosecution shall not commence until the victim has reached the age of 16 or the violation is reported to a law enforcement agency, whichever occurs earlier.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 265, § 22.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 277, § 63.
Rape of child (i.e., under 16 years of age)
  1. There is no time limit to commence legal proceedings against the perpetrator for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 265, § 22A.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 277, § 63.
Rape of child during commission of certain offenses or by use of force
  1. There is no time limit to commence legal proceedings against the perpetrator for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 265, § 22B.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 277, § 63.
Rape of a child through use of force by certain previously convicted offenders
  1. There is no time limit to commence legal proceedings against the perpetrator for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 265, §22C.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 277, § 63.
Rape and abuse of child
  1. There is no time limit to commence legal proceedings against the perpetrator for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 265, § 23.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 277, § 63.
Rape and abuse of child aggravated by age difference between defendant and victim or when committed by mandated reporters
  1. There is no time limit to commence legal proceedings against the perpetrator for this crime.
  1.  Citation for the crime: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 265, § 23A.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 277, § 63
Rape and abuse of child by certain previously convicted offenders
  1. There is no time limit to commence legal proceedings against the perpetrator for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 265, § 23B.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 277, § 63.    
Assault with intent to commit rape
  1. An indictment must be found and filed within 15 years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 265, § 24.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 277, § 63.
Assault on child with intent to commit rape
  1. There is no time limit to commence legal proceedings against the perpetrator for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 265, § 24B.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 277, § 63.
Enticing away person for prostitution or sexual intercourse
  1. An indictment must be found and filed within 6 years after commission of the offense;
  2. If the victim was under 16 at the time of the crime, the time does not begin to run until the victim has reached 16 or the crime is reported to a law enforcement agency, whichever is earlier.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 272, § 2.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 277, § 63
Drugging persons for sexual intercourse
  1. An indictment must be found and filed within 6 years after commission of the offense;
  2. If the victim was under 16 at the time of the crime, the time does not begin to run until the victim has reached 16 or the crime is reported to a law enforcement agency, whichever is earlier.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 272, § 3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 277, § 63.
Inducing person under 18 to have sexual intercourse
  1. An indictment must be found and filed within 6 years after commission of the offense;
  2. If the victim was under 16 at the time of the crime, the time does not begin to run until the victim has reached 16 or the crime is reported to a law enforcement agency, whichever is earlier.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 272, § 4.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 277, § 63.
Owner of place inducing or suffering person to resort in such place for sexual intercourse
  1. An indictment must be found and filed within 6 years after commission of the offense;
  2. If the victim was under 16 at the time of the crime, the time does not begin to run until the victim has reached 16 or the crime is reported to a law enforcement agency, whichever is earlier.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 272, § 6.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 277, § 63.
Incestuous marriage or sexual activities
  1. An indictment must be found and filed within 10 years after commission of the offense;
  2. If the victim was under 16 at the time of the crime, the time does not begin to run until the victim has reached 16 or the crime is reported to a law enforcement agency, whichever is earlier.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 272, § 17.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 277, § 63.
Crime against nature
  1. Legal proceedings against the perpetrator must commence within 6 years after commission of the offense;
  2. If the victim was under 16 at the time of the crime, the time does not begin to run until the victim has reached 16 or the crime is reported to a law enforcement agency, whichever is earlier. 
  1. Citation for the crime: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 272, § 34.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 277, § 63.
Unnatural and lascivious acts
  1. An indictment must be found and filed within 6 years after commission of the offense;
  2. If the victim was under 16 at the time of the crime, the time does not begin to run until the victim has reached 16 or the crime is reported to a law enforcement agency, whichever is earlier. 
  1. Citation for the crime: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 272, § 35.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 277, § 63.
Unnatural and lascivious acts with child under 16
  1. An indictment must be found and filed within 6 years after commission of the offense;
  2. The time does not begin until the victim has reached 16 or the crime is reported to a law enforcement agency, whichever is earlier. 
  1. Citation for the crime: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 272, § 35A.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 277, § 63.
Trafficking persons for sexual servitude
  1. If the victim is under 18, there is no time limit to commence legal proceedings against the perpetrator for this crime;
  2. If the victim is 18 or over, an indictment must be found and filed within 15 years of the commission of the crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 265, § 50.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 277, § 63.    
Inducing minors into prostitution
  1. An indictment must be found and filed within 6 years after commission of the offense;
  2. If the victim was under 16 at the time of the crime, the limitations period does not begin until the victim has reached 16 or the crime is reported to a law enforcement agency, whichever is earlier.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 272, § 4A.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 277, § 63. 
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?






Michigan What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Crime against nature or sodomy
  1. An indictment must be found and filed within six years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mich. Comp. Laws § 750.158.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mich. Comp. Laws § 767.24.

Following the Supreme Court of the United States’ decision in Lawrence v. Texas, it is unconstitutional to prohibit private sexual conduct between consenting adults.  Lawrence v. Texas, 539 U.S. 558 (2003).
Indecent exposure
  1. An indictment must be found and filed within six years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mich. Comp. Laws § 750.335a.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mich. Comp. Laws § 767.24.
Gross indecency; between male persons
  1. An indictment must be found and filed within six years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mich. Comp. Laws § 750.338.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mich. Comp. Laws § 767.24.
Gross indecency; between female persons
  1. An indictment must be found and filed within six years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mich. Comp. Laws § 750.338a.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mich. Comp. Laws § 767.24.
Gross indecency; between male and female persons
  1. An indictment must be found and filed within six years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mich. Comp. Laws § 750.338b.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mich. Comp. Laws § 767.24.
Criminal sexual conduct, first degree

There is no time limit to commence legal proceedings against the perpetrator for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mich. Comp. Laws § 750.520b.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mich. Comp. Laws § 767.24.
Criminal sexual conduct, second degree
  1. Where the victim is 18 years of age or older, an indictment must be found and filed within 10 years after commission of the offense, or by the victim’s 21st birthday, whichever occurs later, subject to the DNA exception below.  However, where the victim is under 18 years of age, an indictment may be found and filed (subject to the DNA exception below) within 15 years after the offense is committed or by the alleged victim’s 28th birthday, whichever is later.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mich. Comp. Laws § 750.520c.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mich. Comp. Laws § 767.24.
Criminal sexual conduct, third degree
  1. Where the victim is 18 years of age or older, an indictment must be found and filed within 10 years after commission of the offense, or by the victim’s 21st birthday, whichever occurs later, subject to the DNA exception below.  Where the victim is under 18 years of age, however, an indictment may be found and filed (subject to the DNA exception below) within 15 years after the offense is committed or by the alleged victim’s 28th birthday, whichever is later.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mich. Comp. Laws § 750.520d.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mich. Comp. Laws § 767.24.
Criminal sexual conduct, fourth degree
  1. An indictment must be found and filed within 10 years after commission of the offense, or by the victim’s 21st birthday, whichever occurs later, subject to the DNA exception below.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mich. Comp. Laws § 750.520e.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mich. Comp. Laws § 767.24.
Assault with intent to commit criminal sexual conduct
  1. An indictment must be found and filed within 10 years after commission of the offense, or by the alleged victim’s 21st birthday, whichever occurs later, subject to the DNA exception below.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mich. Comp. Laws § 750.520g.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mich. Comp. Laws § 767.24. 
Female Genital Mutilation
  1. An indictment must be found and filed within 10 years after commission of the offense, or by the alleged victim’s 21st birthday, whichever occurs later, subject to the DNA exception below.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mich. Comp. Laws § 750.136.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mich. Comp. Laws § 767.24. 
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?






Minnesota What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Sodomy

Repealed effective May 20, 2023.

Repealed effective May 20, 2023.
Criminal sexual conduct, first degree
  1. Any time after the commission of the crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Minn. Stat. § 609.342.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Minn. Stat. § 628.26.
Criminal sexual conduct, second degree
  1. Any time after the commission of the crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Minn. Stat. § 609.343.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Minn. Stat. § 628.26.
Criminal sexual conduct, third degree
  1. Any time after the commission of the crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Minn. Stat. § 609.344.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Minn. Stat. § 628.26.
Criminal sexual conduct, fourth degree
  1. Any time after the commission of the crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Minn. Stat. § 609.345.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Minn. Stat. § 628.26.
Criminal sexual conduct, fifth degree
  1. Legal proceedings against perpetrator must commence within three years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Minn. Stat. § 609.3451.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Minn. Stat. § 628.26.
Criminal sexual predatory conduct
  1. Legal proceedings against perpetrator must commence within three years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Minn. Stat. § 609.3453.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Minn. Stat. § 628.26.
Solicitation of Children to Engage in Sexual Conduct, Communication of Sexually Explicit Materials to Children
  1. Legal proceedings against perpetrator must commence within three years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime:  Minn. Stat. § 609.352.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations:  Minn. Stat. § 628.26.
Incest
  1. Legal proceedings against perpetrator must commence within three years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Minn. Stat. § 609.365.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Minn. Stat. § 628.26.
Female genital mutilation
  1. Legal proceedings against perpetrator must commence within three years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Minn. Stat. § 609.2245.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Minn. Stat. § 628.26.
Soliciting, Inducement, and Promotion of Prostitution; Sex Trafficking
  1. Any time after the commission of the crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Minn. Stat. § 609.322.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Minn. Stat. § 628.26. 
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?






Mississippi What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Assault with intent to ravish
  1. Legal proceedings against perpetrator must commence within two years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Miss. Code § 97-3-71.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Miss. Code § 99-1-5.
Sexual battery
  1. No time limit for sexual battery of a child (§ 97-3-95 (1)(c), (1)(d), and (2)).  This includes sexual battery where: (a) victim is at least 14 but under 16 and offender is at least three years older than victim; (b) victim is under 14 and offender is at least two years older than victim; or (c) victim is under 18 and offender is in a position of trust or authority over the child; otherwise
  2. Legal proceedings against perpetrator for all other sexual battery must commence within two years after commission of the offense. 
  1. Citation for the crime:Miss. Code § 97-3-95.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Miss. Code § 99-1-5.
Sex between law-enforcement or correctional officer or employee and offender
  1. Legal proceedings against perpetrator must commence within two years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Miss. Code § 97-3-104.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Miss. Code § 99-1-5.
Fondling child

1. There is no time limit for commencing legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Miss. Code § 97-5-23.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Miss. Code § 99-1-5.
Disseminating sexual material to children; computer luring
  1. Legal proceedings against perpetrator must commence within two years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Miss. Code § 97-5-27.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Miss. Code § 99-1-5.
Publicly displaying sexually oriented materials

Legal proceedings against perpetrator must commence within two years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Miss. Code § 97-5-29.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Miss. Code § 99-1-5.
Depicting child engaging in sexual conduct

There is no time limit for commencing legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Miss. Code § 97-5-33.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Miss. Code § 99-1-5.
Carnal knowledge of certain children (e.g., stepchildren and adopted child)

Legal proceedings against perpetrator must commence within two years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Miss. Code § 97-5-41.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Miss. Code § 99-1-5.
Sex between teacher and pupil

Legal proceedings against perpetrator must commence within two years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Miss. Code § 97-29-3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Miss. Code § 99-1-5.
Incest

Legal proceedings against perpetrator must commence within two years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Miss. Code § 97-29-5.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Miss. Code § 99-1-5.
Sex between guardian and ward

Legal proceedings against perpetrator must commence within two years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Miss. Code § 97-29-7.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Miss. Code § 99-1-5.
Incestuous marriages

Legal proceedings against perpetrator must commence within two years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Miss. Code § 97-29-27.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Miss. Code § 99-1-5.
Indecent exposure

Legal proceedings against perpetrator must commence within two years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Miss. Code § 97-29-31.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Miss. Code § 99-1-5.
Sodomy

Legal proceedings against perpetrator must commence within two years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Miss. Code § 97-29-59.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Miss. Code § 99-1-5.

Following the Supreme Court of the United States' decision in Lawrence v. Texas, it is unconstitutional to prohibit private sexual conduct between consenting adults. Lawrence v. Texas, 539 U.S. 558 (2003); see also Doe v. Hood, 345 F Supp. 3d 749, 762 (S.D. Miss. 2018), (calling into question the constitutionality of this statute).
Statutory rape; forcible sexual intercourse
  1. There is no statute of limitations for prosecutions for rape.
  1. Citation for the crime: Miss. Code § 97-3-65.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Miss. Code § 99-1-5.
  3. Op.Atty.Gen. No. 2008-00673, Greenlee, January 23, 2009, 2009 WL 367663—The crime of statutory rape under § 97-3-65 does fall within the definition of “rape” as used in § 99-1-5, and statutory rape is not subject to the two-year statute of limitation contained in § 99-1-5.  See also Azomani v. State, 222 So. 3d 282, 286 (Miss. 2017) (“[E]ven though statutory rape was not expressly set out in Section99-1-5, ‘it is within the definition of rape for purposes of the exceptions to the general two-year statute of limitations.’”).
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?






Missouri What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
First degree rape and attempted first degree rape

There is no time limit for commencing legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 566.030.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 556.036.
Statutory rape and attempt to commit statutory rape, first degree

There is no time limit for commencing legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 566.032.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 556.037.
Statutory rape, second degree

There is no time limit for commencing legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 566.034.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 556.037.
First degree sodomy
  1. There is no time limit for commencing legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 566.060.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 556.036.
Statutory sodomy, first degree

There is no time limit for commencing legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 566.062.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 556.037.
Statutory sodomy, second degree

There is no time limit for commencing legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 566.064.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 556.037.
Child molestation, first degree

There is no time limit to commence legal proceedings for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 566.067.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 556.037.
Child molestation, second degree

There is no time limit for commencing legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 566.068.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations:  Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 556.037, 589.400, 568.060.
Sexual misconduct involving a child

There is no time limit for commencing legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 566.083.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 556.037, 589.400, 568.060.
Sexual contact with a student while on public school property
  1. If the crime involves a victim under 18 years of age, then legal proceedings may be commenced at any time; otherwise
  2. Legal proceedings must commence within three years after commission of the offense.
    1. Citation for the crime: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 566.086.
    Citation for the statute of limitations: Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 556.036, 556.037.
Sexual misconduct, first degree, penalties
  1. If the crime involves a victim under 18 years of age, then legal proceedings may be commenced at any time; otherwise
  2. Legal proceedings must commence within one year after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 566.093.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 556.036, 56.037.
Sexual misconduct, second degree, penalties
  1. If the crime involves a victim under 18 years of age, then legal proceedings may be commenced at any time; otherwise
  2. Legal proceedings must commence within one year after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 566.095.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 556.036, 556.037.
Sexual contact with prisoner or offender
  1. If the crime involves a victim under 18 years of age, then legal proceedings may be commenced at any time; otherwise
  2. Legal proceedings must commence within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 566.145.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 556.036, 556.037. 
Enticement of a child, penalties

There is no time limit for commencing legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 566.151.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 556.037.
Sexual trafficking of a child--penalty

There is no time limit for commencing legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 566.210 and 566.211.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 556.037.
Incest
  1. If the crime involves a victim under 18 years of age, then legal proceedings may be commenced; otherwise
  2. Legal proceedings must commence within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 568.020.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 556.036, 556.037.
Genital mutilation of a female child, penalty—affirmative defenses

There is no time limit to commence legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime:  Mo. Rev. Stat. § 573.200.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations:  Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 556.0376, 556.03400(1)(2)7.
Child used in sexual performance, penalties

There is no time limit for commencing legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime:  Mo. Rev. Stat. § 573.200.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations:  Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 556.037, 556.0400(1)(2). Citation for the statute of limitations: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 556.036, 556.037.
Promoting sexual performance by a child, penalties

There is no time limit for commencing legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime:  Mo. Rev. Stat. § 573.205.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations:  Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 556.037, 556.0400(1)(2).Citation for the statute of limitations: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 556.036, 556.037.
Second degree rape
  1. If the crime involves a victim under 18 years of age, then legal proceedings may be commenced at any time; otherwise
  2. Legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime must commence within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 566.032.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 556.037.
Second degree sodomy
  1. If the crime involves a victim under 18 years of age, then legal proceedings may be commenced at any time; otherwise
  2. Legal proceedings must commence within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 566.061.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 556.036, 556.037.
Sexual abuse, first degree
  1. If the crime involves a victim under 18 years of age, then legal proceedings may be commenced at any time; otherwise
  2. Legal proceedings must commence within three years after commission of the offense.e.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 566.100.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 556.036, 556.037. 
Sexual abuse, second degree
  1. If the crime involves a victim under 18 years of age, then legal proceedings may be commenced at any time; otherwise
  2. If the crime is an aggravated sexual offense, then it is a felony, and legal proceedings must commence within three years after commission of the offense; or
  3. If the crime is not an aggravated sexual offense, then it is a misdemeanor, and legal proceedings must commence within one year after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 566.101.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 556.036, 556.037.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?






Montana What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Sexual assault
  1. Legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime must commence within 10 years after commission of the offense for felony offenses; or
  2. If victim was under 18 at the time the offense occurred, a prosecution may be commenced at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mont. Code § 45-5-502.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mont. Code § 45-1-205.
Sexual intercourse without consent
  1. Legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime must commence within 10 years after commission of the offense for felony offenses; or
  2. If victim was under 18 at the time the offense occurred, a prosecution may be commenced at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mont. Code § 45-5-503.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mont. Code § 45-1-205
Indecent exposure
  1. Legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime must commence within 10 years after commission of the offense for felony offenses; or
  2. If victim was under 18 at the time the offense occurred, a prosecution may be commenced at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mont. Code § 45-5-504.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mont. Code § 45-1-205
Deviate sexual conduct
  1. Legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime must commence within 5 years after commission of the offense if a felony; or
  2. If a misdemeanor, within one year after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mont. Code § 45-8-218.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mont. Code § 45-1-205.
Incest
  1. Legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime must commence within 10 years after commission of the offense (only if the victim is under 16 years of age and the offender is 3 or more years older than the victim or if the offender inflicts bodily injury upon anyone in the course of committing incest (§ 45-5-507(4)), or if the victim was 12 years of age or younger and the offender was 18 years of age or older at the time of the offense (§ 45-5-507(5))), otherwise: (a) legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime must commence within five years after commission of the offense if a felony; or (b) if a misdemeanor, within one year after commission of the offense; or
  2. If victim was under 18 at the time the offense occurred, a prosecution may be commenced at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mont. Code § 45-5-507.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mont. Code § 45-1-205
Sexual abuse of children
  1. Legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime must commence within 10 years after commission of the offense for felony offenses; or
  2. If victim was under 18 at the time the offense occurred, a prosecution may be commenced at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mont. Code § 45-5-625.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mont. Code § 45-1-205.
Ritual abuse of minors
  1. Legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime must commence within 10 years after commission of the offense for felony offenses; or
  2. If victim was under 18 at the time the offense occurred, a prosecution may be commenced at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mont. Code § 45-5-627.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mont. Code § 45-1-205
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?
Aggravated sexual intercourse without consent
  1. Legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime must commence within 5 years after commission of the offense for felony offenses; or
  2. If victim was under 18 at the time the offense occurred, a prosecution may be commenced at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mont. Code § 45-5-508.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mont. Code § 45-1-205.
Promoting Prostitution

Repealed by Laws 2023, ch. 167, § 36, eff. April 19, 2023.

Repealed by Laws 2023, ch. 167, § 36, eff. April 19, 2023.
Aggravated promotion of prostitution

Repealed by Laws 2023, ch. 167, § 36, eff. April 19, 2023.

Repealed by Laws 2023, ch. 167, § 36, eff. April 19, 2023.
Sexual Servitude

Repealed by Laws 2023, ch. 167, § 36, eff. April 19, 2023.

Repealed by Laws 2023, ch. 167, § 36, eff. April 19, 2023.
Patronizing victim of sexual servitude

Repealed by Laws 2023, ch. 167, § 36, eff. April 19, 2023.

Repealed by Laws 2023, ch. 167, § 36, eff. April 19, 2023.
Sex Trafficking
  1. Legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime must commence within 5 years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If victim was under 18 at the time the offense occurred, a prosecution may be commenced at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mont. Code § 45-5-705.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mont. Code § 45-1-205.
Patronizing victim of sex trafficking
  1. Legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime must commence within 5 years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If victim was under 18 at the time the offense occurred, a prosecution may be commenced at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: Mont. Code § 45-5-705.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mont. Code § 45-1-205.
Aggravated Sex Trafficking
  1. Citation for the crime: Mont. Code § 45-5-706.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Mont. Code § 45-1-205.






Nebraska What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Sexual assault, first degree
  1. There is no time limit to begin legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-319.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 29-110.
Sexual assault of a child, first degree
  1. There is no time limit to begin legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-319.01.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 29-110.
Sexual assault, second or third degree
  1. There is no time limit to begin legal proceedings against a perpetrator of (a) sexual assault in the second degree, or (b) sexual assault in the third degree when the victim is under 16 years of age at the time of the offense.
  2. Otherwise, for sexual assault in the third degree, legal proceedings against the perpetrator must commence within one year and six months of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-320.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 29-110.
Sexual assault of a child, second or third degree
  1. There is no time limit to begin legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-320.01.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 29-110.
Sexual assault; use of electronic communication device
  1. For all felonies, (i) indictment must be found by a grand jury within three years after commission of the offense, or (ii) a complaint must be filed within three years after commission of the offense, and a warrant for arrest of defendant must have been issued.
  1. Citation for the crime: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28.320.02.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 29-110.
Sexual abuse of an inmate or parolee, first degree
  1. For all felonies, (i) indictment must be found by a grand jury within three years after commission of the offense, or (ii) a complaint must be filed within three years after commission of the offense, and a warrant for arrest of defendant must have been issued.
  1. Citation for the crime: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-322.02.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 29-110.
Sexual abuse of an inmate or parolee, second degree
  1. For all felonies, (i) indictment must be found by a grand jury within three years after commission of the offense, or (ii) a complaint must be filed within three years after commission of the offense, and a warrant for arrest of defendant must have been issued.
  1. Citation for the crime: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-322.03.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 29-110.
Sexual abuse of a protected individual (an individual in the care or custody of the Department of Health and Human Services)
  1. For all felonies, (i) indictment must be found by a grand jury within three years after commission of the offense, or (ii) a complaint must be filed within three years after commission of the offense, and a warrant for arrest of defendant must have been issued.
  1. Citation for the crime: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-322.04.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 29-110.
Incest
  1. There is no time limit to begin legal proceedings against a perpetrator of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-703.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 29-110.
Child Abuse
  1. If the victim is under 16 years of age at the time of the offense, (i) the indictment must be found by a grand jury within seven years after commission of the offense or within seven years after the victim’s 16th birthday, whichever is later, or (ii) a complaint must be filed within seven years after commission of the offense or within seven years after the victim’s 16th birthday, whichever is later, and a warrant for arrest of defendant must have been issued.
  1. Citation for the crime: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-707.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 29-110.
Pandering
  1. If the victim is under 16 years of age at the time of the offense, (i) the indictment must be found by a grand jury within seven years after commission of the offense or within seven years after the victim’s 16th birthday, whichever is later, or (ii) a complaint must be filed within seven years after commission of the offense or within seven years after the victim’s 16th birthday, whichever is later, and a warrant for arrest of defendant must have been issued.
  1. Citation for the crime: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-802.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 29-110.
Debauching a minor
  1. If the victim is under 16 years of age at the time of the offense, (i) the indictment must be found by a grand jury within seven years after commission of the offense or within seven years after the victim’s 16th birthday, whichever is later, or (ii) a complaint must be filed within seven years after commission of the offense or within seven years after the victim’s 16th birthday, whichever is later, and a warrant for arrest of defendant must have been issued.
  1. Citation for the crime: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-805.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 29-110.
Sexually explicit conduct; visual depiction
  1. The indictment must be found by a grand jury within seven years after commission of the offense or within seven years after the victim’s 18th birthday, whichever is later; or a complaint must be filed within seven years after commission of the offense or within seven years next after the victim’s 18th birthday, whichever is later, and a warrant for arrest of defendant must have been issued.
  1. Citation for the crime: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-813.01.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 29-110.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?
Sex trafficking; sex trafficking of a minor
  1. There is no time limit to begin legal proceedings against a perpetrator of the crime of sex trafficking of a minor.
  2. If (a) the victim of sex trafficking is not a minor or (b) any person, other than a trafficking victim, knowingly benefits from or participates in a venture which has, as part of the venture, an act of sexual trafficking:
    1. the indictment must be found by a grand jury within seven years after commission of the offense or within seven years next after the victim’s 18th birthday, whichever is later, or
    2. a complaint must be filed within seven years after commission of the offense or within seven years next after the victim’s 18th birthday, whichever is later, and a warrant for arrest of defendant must have been issued.
  1. Citation for the crime: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-831.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 29-110.
Sexual abuse of a detainee
  1. For all felonies, (1) indictment must be found by a grand jury within three years after commission of the offense, or (2) a complaint must be filed within three years after commission of the offense, and a warrant for arrest of defendant must have been issued.
  1. Citation for the crime: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-322.05.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 29-110.






Nevada What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Sexual assault
  1. Sexual assault must be found, or an information or complaint filed, within twenty years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If sexual abuse against a child, before the victim is 36 if victim discovers or reasonably should have discovered that she/he was a victim of sexual abuse by the date she/he reaches 36; or before the victim is 43 if she/he does not discover and reasonably should not have discovered that she/he was a victim of the sexual abuse by the date she/he reached 36.
  1. Citation for the crime: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 200.366.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 171.085; Nev. Rev. Stat. § 171.083; Nev. Rev. Stat. § 171.095.
Statutory sexual seduction
  1. If a felony, within three years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If a gross misdemeanor, within 2 years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Nev. Rev. Stat. §200.368.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 171.085; Nev. Rev. Stat. § 171.090.
Promotion of sexual performance of minor unlawful
  1. Within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 200.720.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 171.085.
Preparing, advertising or distributing materials depicting pornography involving minor unlawful
  • Within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 200.725.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 171.085.
Use of Internet to control visual presentation depicting sexual conduct of person under 16 years of age
  1. Within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 200.727.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 171.085.
Possession of visual presentation depicting sexual conduct of person under 16 years of age unlawful
  1. Within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 200.730.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 171.085.
Incest
  1. Within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 201.180.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 171.085.
Commission of certain sexual acts in public
  1. Within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 201.190.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 171.085.
Open or gross lewdness
  1. If a felony, within three years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If a gross misdemeanor, within 2 years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 201.210.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 171.085; Nev. Rev. Stat. § 171.090.
Indecent or obscene exposure; penalty
  1. Within three years after commission of the offense if a felony; or
  2. If gross misdemeanor, within two years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 201.220.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Nev. Rev. Stat § 171.085; Nev. Rev. Stat. § 171.090.
Sexual conduct between certain employees of school or volunteers at school and pupil
  1. Within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Nev. Rev. Stat. §201.540.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 171.085.
Sexual conduct between certain employees of college or university and student
  1. Within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Nev. Rev. Stat. §201.550.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 171.085.
Sexual Penetration of Dead Human Body
  1. Within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Nev. Rev. Stat. §201.450.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 171.085.
Intentional Transmission of HIV

Repealed in 2021.

Repealed in 2021.
Luring children or persons with mental illness
  1. Within three years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If a gross misdemeanor, within 2 years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 201.560.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 171.085; Nev. Rev. Stat. § 171.090.
Lewdness with child under 16 years
  1. Within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 201.230.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 171.085.
Unlawful to use minor in producing pornography or as subject of sexual portrayal in performance
  1. Within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 200.710.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 171.085.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?
Sexual conduct with person under arrest or currently detained by law enforcement officer
  1. Within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Nev. Rev. Stat. SB 201.465.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Nev. Rev. Stat. § 171.085.






New Hampshire What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Aggravated felonious sexual assault
  1. Within six years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, within 22 years of victim’s eighteenth birthday.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.H. Rev. Stat. § 632-A:2.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.H. Rev. Stat. § 625:8.
Felonious sexual assault
  1. Within six years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, within 22 years of victim’s eighteenth birthday.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.H. Rev. Stat. § 632-A:3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.H. Rev. Stat. § 625:8.
Sexual Assault
  1. Within one year after commission of the offense; or
  2. If victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, within 22 years of victim’s eighteenth birthday.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.H. Rev. Stat. § 632-A:4.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.H. Rev. Stat. § 625:8.
Incest
  1. Within six years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, within 22 years of victim’s eighteenth birthday.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.H. Rev. Stat. § 639:2.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.H. Rev. Stat. § 625:8.
Indecent Exposure and Lewdness
  1. Within six years after commission of the offense if a Class A or B felony; or
  2. If a misdemeanor, within one year after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.H. Rev. Stat. § 645:1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.H. Rev. Stat. § 625:8.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?






New Jersey What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Sexual Assault
  1. There is no time limit for sexual assault or aggravated sexual assault.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.J. Stat. § 2C:14-2.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.J. Stat. § 2C:1-6.
Lewdness
  1. Within one year after commission of the offense if a disorderly persons offense; or
  2. Within five years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.J. Stat. § 2C:14-4.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.J. Stat. § 2C:1-6.
Endangering welfare of children
  1. Within five years after commission of the offense; or
  2. When victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, within five years after victim reaches the age of 18 or within two years after discovery of the offense by the victim, whichever occurs later.

Note that State v. Higginbotham, 475 N.J. Super. 205, 234, 291 A.3d 1164, 1181 (App. Div. 2023), currently on appeal, holds that portions of the child endangerment statute are unconstitutionally overbroad.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.J. Stat. § 2C:24-4.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.J. Stat. § 2C:1-6.
Criminal Sexual Contact
  1. Within five years after commission of the offense; or
  2. When victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, within five years after victim reaches the age of 18 or within two years after discovery of the offense by the victim, whichever occurs later.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.J. Stat. § 2C:14-3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.J. Stat. § 2C:1-6.
Invasion of privacy; observation of sexual contact; reproduction or disclosure of images of sexual contact; dressing rooms; defenses
  1. Within five years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.J. Stat. § 2C:14-9.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.J. Stat. § 2C:1-6.
Genital mutilation of females under 18 years of age
  1. Within five years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.J. Stat. § 2C:24-10.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.J. Stat. § 2C:1-6.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?






New Mexico What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Anything else I should know?
Indecent Exposure

This crime is a misdemeanor.

  1. Within two years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.M. Stat. § 30-9-14.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.M. Stat. § 30-1-8.
Sexual exploitation of children by prostitution

The statute of limitations depends on the classification of the crime.

  1. If a first degree felony, no statute of limitations; or
  2. If a second degree felony, within six years after commission of the offense; or
  3. If a third degree felony, within five years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.M. Stat. § 30-6A-4.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.M. Stat. § 30-1-8.
Enticement of child

This crime is a misdemeanor.

  1. Within two years after commission of the crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.M. Stat. § 30-9-1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.M. Stat. § 30-1-8.
Criminal sexual penetration

The statute of limitations depends on the classification of the crime.

  1. If a first degree felony, no statute of limitations; or
  2. If a second degree felony, within six years after commission of the offense; or
  3. If a third or fourth degree felony, within five years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.M. Stat. § 30-9-11.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.M. Stat. § 30-1-8.
Criminal sexual contact

The statute of limitations depends on the classification of the crime.

  1. If a fourth degree felony, within five years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If a misdemeanor, within two years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.M. Stat. § 30-9-12.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.M. Stat. § 30-1-8.
Aggravated indecent exposure

This crime is a fourth degree felony.

  1. Within five years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.M. Stat. § 30-9-14.3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.M. Stat. § 30-1-8.
Criminal sexual contact of a minor

The statute of limitations depends on the classification of the crime.

  1. If a second degree felony, within six years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If a third or fourth degree felony, within five years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.M. Stat. § 30-9-14.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.M. Stat. § 30-1-8.
Abandonment or abuse of a child

The statute of limitations depends on the classification of the crime.

  1. If a first degree felony, no statute of limitations; or
  2. If a second degree felony, within six years after commission of the offense; or
  3. If a third degree felony, within five years after commission of the offense; or
  4. If a misdemeanor, within two years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.M. Stat. § 30-6-1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.M. Stat. § 30-1-8.
Sexual exploitation of children

The statute of limitations depends on the classification of the crime.

  1. If a second degree felony, within six years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If a third degree felony, within five years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.M. Stat. § 30-6A-3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.M. Stat. § 30-1-8.
Incest

This crime is a third degree felony.

  1. Within five years after commission of the offense.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?






New York What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Anything else I should know?
Sexual misconduct

This crime is a Class A misdemeanor.

  1. A criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within two years after commission of the offense; and
  2. If against a victim that was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, the period of limitations does not begin to run until victim has reached the age of 23 or the offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or statewide central register of child abuse and maltreatment, whichever occurs earlier.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 130.20.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Rape, third degree

This crime is a Class E felony.

  1. A criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within ten years after commission of the offense; and
  2. If against a victim that was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, the period of limitations does not begin to run until victim has reached the age of 23 or the offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or statewide central register of child abuse and maltreatment, whichever occurs earlier.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 130.25.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Rape, second degree

This crime is a Class D felony.

  1. Criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within twenty years after commission of the offense or within ten years from when the offense is first reported to law enforcement, whichever occurs earlier; and
  2. If against a victim that was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, the period of limitations does not begin to run until victim has reached the age of 23 or the offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or statewide central register of child abuse and maltreatment, whichever occurs earlier.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 130.30.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Rape, first degree

This crime is a Class B felony.

  1. There is no time limit to commence a criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 130.35.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Criminal sexual act, third degree

This crime is a Class E felony.

  1. Criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within ten years after commission of the offense; and
  2. If against a victim that was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, the period of limitations does not begin to run until victim has reached the age of 23 or the offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or statewide central register of child abuse and maltreatment, whichever occurs earlier.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 130.40.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Criminal sexual act, second degree

This crime is a Class D felony.

  1. Criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within twenty years after commission of the offense or within ten years from when the offense is first reported to law enforcement, whichever occurs earlier; and
  2. If against a victim that was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, the period of limitations does not begin to run until victim has reached the age of 23 or the offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or statewide central register of child abuse and maltreatment, whichever occurs earlier.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 130.45.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Criminal sexual act, first degree

This crime is a Class B felony.

  1. There is no time limit to commence a criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 130.50.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Forcible touching

This crime is a Class A misdemeanor.

  1. A criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within two years after commission of the offense; and
  2. If against a victim that was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, the period of limitations does not begin to run until victim has reached the age of 23 or the offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or statewide central register of child abuse and maltreatment, whichever occurs earlier.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 130.52.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Persistent sexual abuse

This crime is a Class E felony.

  1. A criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within five years after commission of the offense; and
  2. If against a victim that was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, the period of limitations does not begin to run until victim has reached the age of 23 or the offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or statewide central register of child abuse and maltreatment, whichever occurs earlier.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 130.53.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Sexual abuse, third degree

This crime is a Class B misdemeanor.

  1. A criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within two years after commission of the offense; and
  2. If against a victim that was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, the period of limitations does not begin to run until victim has reached the age of 23 or the offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or statewide central register of child abuse and maltreatment, whichever occurs earlier.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 130.55.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Sexual abuse, second degree

This crime is a Class A misdemeanor.

  1. A criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within two years after commission of the offense; and
  2. If against a victim that was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, the period of limitations does not begin to run until victim has reached the age of 23 or the offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or statewide central register of child abuse and maltreatment, whichever occurs earlier.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 130.60.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Sexual abuse, first degree

This crime is a Class D felony.

  1. A criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within five years after commission of the offense; and
  2. If against a victim that was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, the period of limitations does not begin to run until victim has reached the age of 23 or the offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or statewide central register of child abuse and maltreatment, whichever occurs earlier.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 130.65.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Aggravated sexual abuse, fourth degree

This crime is a Class E felony.

  1. A criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within five years after commission of the offense; and
  2. If against a victim that was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, the period of limitations does not begin to run until victim has reached the age of 23 or the offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or statewide central register of child abuse and maltreatment, whichever occurs earlier.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 130.65-a.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Aggravated sexual abuse, third degree

This crime is a Class D felony.

  1. A criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within five years after commission of the offense; and
  2. If against a victim that was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, the period of limitations does not begin to run until victim has reached the age of 23 or the offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or statewide central register of child abuse and maltreatment, whichever occurs earlier [for offenses committed after September 18, 2019, otherwise time tolls until age 18].
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 130.66.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Aggravated sexual abuse, second degree

This crime is a Class C felony.

  1. A criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within five years after commission of the offense; and
  2. If against a victim that was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, the period of limitations does not begin to run until victim has reached the age of 23 or the offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or statewide central register of child abuse and maltreatment, whichever occurs earlier [for offenses committed after September 18, 2019, otherwise time tolls until age 18].
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 130.67.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Aggravated sexual abuse, first degree

This crime is a Class B felony.

  1. There is no time limit to commence a criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 130.70.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Course of sexual conduct against a child, first degree

This crime is a Class B felony.

  1. There is no time limit to commence a criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 130.75.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Course of sexual conduct against a child, second degree

This crime is a Class D felony.

  1. A criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within five years after commission of the most recent act of sexual conduct; and
  2. If against a victim that was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, the period of limitations does not begin to run until victim has reached the age of 23 or the offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or statewide central register of child abuse and maltreatment, whichever occurs earlier [for offenses committed after September 18, 2019, otherwise time tolls until age 18].
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 130.80.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Female genital mutilation

This crime is a Class E felony.

  1. A criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within five years after commission of the offense; and
  2. If against a victim that was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, the period of limitations does not begin to run until victim has reached the age of 23 or the offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or statewide central register of child abuse and maltreatment, whichever occurs earlier [for offenses committed after September 18, 2019, otherwise time tolls until age 18].
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 130.85.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Facilitating a sex offense with a controlled substance

This crime is a Class D felony.

  1. A criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within five years after commission of the offense; and
  2. If against a victim that was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, the period of limitations does not begin to run until victim has reached the age of 23 or the offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or statewide central register of child abuse and maltreatment, whichever occurs earlier [for offenses committed after September 18, 2019, otherwise time tolls until age 18].
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 130.90.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Predatory sexual assault

This crime is a Class A-II felony.

  1. There is no time limit to commence a criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 130.95.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Predatory sexual assault against a child

This crime is a Class A-II felony.

  1. There is no time limit to commence a criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 130.96.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Incest, third degree

This crime is a Class E felony.

  1. A criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within five years after commission of the offense; and
  2. If against a victim that was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, the period of limitations does not begin to run until victim has reached the age of 23 or the offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or statewide central register of child abuse and maltreatment, whichever occurs earlier [for offenses committed after September 18, 2019, otherwise time tolls until age 18].
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 255.25.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Incest, second degree

This crime is a Class D felony.

  1. A criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within twenty years after commission of the offense or within ten years from when the offense is first reported to law enforcement, whichever occurs earlier; and
  2. If against a victim that was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, the period of limitations does not begin to run until victim has reached the age of 23 or the offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or statewide central register of child abuse and maltreatment, whichever occurs earlier.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 255.26.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Incest, first degree

This crime is a Class B felony.

  1. A criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime may be commenced at any time.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 255.27.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Sexually motivated felony

A felony, as further defined by the specified offenses in the statute.

  1. A criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within five years after commission of the offense; and
  2. If against a victim that was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, the period of limitations does not begin to run until victim has reached the age of 23 or the offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or statewide central register of child abuse and maltreatment, whichever occurs earlier [for offenses committed after September 18, 2019, otherwise time tolls until age 18].
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 130.91.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Use of a child in a sexual performance

This crime is a Class C felony.

  1. A criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within five years after commission of the offense; and
  2. If against a victim that was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, the period of limitations does not begin to run until victim has reached the age of 23 or the offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or statewide central register of child abuse and maltreatment, whichever occurs earlier.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.Y. Penal Law § 263.05.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law § 30.10.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?






North Carolina What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Sexual contact or penetration under pretext of medical treatment
First degree forcible rape
  1. No statute of limitations for any felony, including this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-27.21.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Hardin, 201 S.E.2d 74 (N.C. Ct. App. 1973).
Statutory rape of a child by an adult
  1. No statute of limitations for any felony, including this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-27.23.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Hardin, 201 S.E.2d 74 (N.C. Ct. App. 1973).
Second degree forcible rape
  1. No statute of limitations for any felony, including this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-27.22.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Hardin, 201 S.E.2d 74 (N.C. Ct. App. 1973).
First degree forcible sexual offense
  1. No statute of limitations for any felony, including this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-27.26.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Hardin, 201 S.E.2d 74 (N.C. Ct. App. 1973).
Statutory sexual offense with a child by an adult
  1. No statute of limitations for any felony, including this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-27.28.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Hardin, 201 S.E.2d 74 (N.C. Ct. App. 1973).
Second degree forcible sexual offense
  1. No statute of limitations for any felony, including this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.C. Gen. Stat. §14-27.27.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Hardin, 201 S.E.2d 74 (N.C. Ct. App. 1973).
Sexual battery

This crime is a misdemeanor.

  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within ten years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-27.33.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 15-1(b).
Statutory rape of person who is 15 years of age or younger
  1. No statute of limitations for any felony, including this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-27.25.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Hardin, 201 S.E.2d 74 (N.C. Ct. App. 1973).
Incest
  1. No statute of limitations for any felony, including this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-178.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Hardin, 201 S.E.2d 74 (N.C. Ct. App. 1973).
Taking indecent liberties with children
  1. No statute of limitations for any felony, including this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-202.1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Hardin, 201 S.E.2d 74 (N.C. Ct. App. 1973).
Indecent liberties between children

This crime is a misdemeanor.

  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within two years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-202.2.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 15-1.
Taking indecent liberties with a student
  1. No statute of limitations for any felony, including this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-202.4.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Hardin, 201 S.E.2d 74 (N.C. Ct. App. 1973).
First degree statutory rape
  1. No statute of limitations for any felony, including this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-27.24.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Hardin, 201 S.E.2d 74 (N.C. Ct. App. 1973).
Statutory sexual offense with a person who is 15 years of age or younger
  1. No statute of limitations for any felony, including this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-27.30.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Hardin, 201 S.E.2d 74 (N.C. Ct. App. 1973). 
First degree statutory sexual offense
  1. No statute of limitations for any felony, including this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-27.29.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Hardin, 201 S.E.2d 74 (N.C. Ct. App. 1973). 
Solicitation of child by computer or certain other electronic devices to commit an unlawful sex act
  1. No statute of limitations for any felony, including this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-202.3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Hardin, 201 S.E.2d 74 (N.C. Ct. App. 1973).
First degree sexual exploitation of a minor

No statute of limitations for any felony, including this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-190.16.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Hardin, 201 S.E.2d 74 (N.C. Ct. App. 1973).
Second degree sexual exploitation of a minor
  1. No statute of limitations for any felony, including this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-190.17.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Hardin, 201 S.E.2d 74 (N.C. Ct. App. 1973).
Third degree sexual exploitation of a minor
  1. No statute of limitations for any felony, including this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-190.17A.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Hardin, 201 S.E.2d 74 (N.C. Ct. App. 1973).
Sexual activity by a substitute parent or custodian

No statute of limitations for any felony, including this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-27.31.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Hardin, 201 S.E.2d 74 (N.C. Ct. App. 1973). 
Sexual activity with a student
  1. No statute of limitations for any felony, including this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-27.32.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Hardin, 201 S.E.2d 74 (N.C. Ct. App. 1973). 
Anything else I should know?
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Indecent Exposure

The statute of limitations depends on the classification of the crime.

  1. If a felony, no statute of limitations; or
  2. If a misdemeanor, within 2 years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-190.9.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Hardin, 201 S.E.2d 74 (N.C. Ct. App. 1973) and N.C. Gen. Stat. § 15-1.






North Dakota What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Anything else I should know?
Facilitation of sexual acts in public
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within two years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.D. Cent. Code § 12.1-20-24.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.D. Cent. Code § 29-04-03.
Gross sexual imposition
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within three years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If prosecuting under subdivision a of subsection 1 of this section (compelling “victim to submit by force or by threat of imminent death, serious bodily injury, or kidnapping”), prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within seven years after commission of the offense; or
  3. If the victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, within 21 years after commission of the offense or, if victim failed to report the offense within this limitation period, within three years after offense was reported to law enforcement authorities. 
  1. Citation for the crime: N.D. Cent. Code § 12.1-20-03.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.D. Cent. Code § 29-04-02 and § 29-04-02.1 and § 29-04-03.1.
Continuous sexual abuse of a child
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within seven years after commission of the offence; or
  2. If the victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, within 21 years after commission of the offense or, if victim failed to report the offense within this limitation period, within three years after offense was reported to law enforcement authorities.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.D. Cent. Code § 12.1-20-03.1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.D. Cent. Code § 29-04-02.1 and § 29-04-03.1.
Sexual imposition
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within seven years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If the victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, within 21 years after commission of the offense or, if victim failed to report the offense within this limitation period, within three years after offense was reported to law enforcement authorities.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.D. Cent. Code § 12.1-20-04.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.D. Cent. Code § 29-04-02.1 and § 29-04-03.1.
Corruption or solicitation of minors
  1. If the victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, within 21 years after commission of the offense or, if victim failed to report the offense within this limitation period, within three years after offense was reported to law enforcement authorities; or
  2. If a felony, within seven years after commission of the offense; or
  3. If a misdemeanor, within two years after commission of the offense.  
  1. Citation for the crime: N.D. Cent. Code § 12.1-20-05.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.D. Cent. Code § 29-04-02.1 and § 29-04-03 and § 29-04-03.1.
Luring minors by computer or other electronic means
  1. If the victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, within 21 years after commission of the offense or, if victim failed to report the offense within this limitation period, within three years after offense was reported to law enforcement authorities; or
  2. If a felony, within seven years after commission of the offense; or
  3. If a misdemeanor, within two years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.D. Cent. Code § 12.1-20-05.1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.D. Cent. Code § 29-04-02.1 and § 29-04-03 and § 29-04-03.1.
Sexual abuse of wards
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within seven years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If the victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, within 21 years after commission of the offense or, if victim failed to report the offense within this limitation period, within three years after offense was reported to law enforcement authorities.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.D. Cent. Code § 12.1-20-06.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.D. Cent. Code § 29-04-02.1 and § 29-04-03.1.
Sexual exploitation by therapist
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within seven years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If the victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, within 21 years after commission of the offense or, if victim failed to report the offense within this limitation period, within three years after offense was reported to law enforcement authorities.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.D. Cent. Code § 12.1-20-06.1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.D. Cent. Code § 29-04-02.1 and § 29-04-03.1.
Fornication
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within two years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If the victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, within 21 years after commission of the offense or, if victim failed to report the offense within this limitation period, within three years after offense was reported to law enforcement authorities.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.D. Cent. Code § 12.1-20-08.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.D. Cent. Code § 29-04-03 and § 29-04-03.1.
Incest
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within three years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If the victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, within 21 years after commission of the offense or, if victim failed to report the offense within this limitation period, within three years after offense was reported to law enforcement authorities.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.D. Cent. Code § 12.1-20-11.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.D. Cent. Code § 29-04-02 and § 29-04-03.1.
Deviate sexual act
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within two years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.D. Cent. Code § 12.1-20-12.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.D. Cent. Code § 29-04-03.
Sexual assault
  1. If the victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, within 21 years after commission of the offense or, if victim failed to report the offense within this limitation period, within three years after offense was reported to law enforcement authorities; or
  2. If a felony, within seven years after commission of the offense; or
  3. If a misdemeanor, within two years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.D. Cent. Code § 12.1-20-07.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.D. Cent. Code § 29-04-02.1 and § 29-04-03 and § 29-04-03.1.
Sexual offender presence near schools prohibited
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within two years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.D. Cent. Code § 12.1-20-24.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.D. Cent. Code § 29-04-03.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Indecent Exposure

The statute of limitations depends on the classification of the crime.

  1. If a felony, within seven years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If a misdemeanor, within 2 years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.D. Cent. Code § 12.1-20-12.1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.D. Cent. Code § 29-04-02.1 and § 29-04-03.
Surreptitious intrusion

The statute of limitations depends on the classification of the crime.

  1. If a felony, within seven years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If a misdemeanor, within 2 years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.D. Cent. Code § 12.1-20-12.2.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.D. Cent. Code § 29-04-02.1 and § 29-04-03.
Sexual Extortion

The statute of limitations depends on the classification of the crime.

  1. If a felony, within seven years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If a misdemeanor, within 2 years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.D. Cent. Code § 12.1-20-12.3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.D. Cent. Code § 29-04-02.1 and § 29-04-03.
Bigamy
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within seven years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: N.D. Cent. Code § 12.1-20-13.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: N.D. Cent. Code § 29-04-02.1.






Ohio What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Pandering sexually oriented matter involving a minor or impaired person
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within 6 years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2907.321.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2901.13.
Illegal use of a minor or impaired person in nudity-oriented material or performance
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within 6 years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2907.323.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2901.13.
Female genital mutilation
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within 6 years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2903.32.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2901.13.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?
Rape
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within 25 years after commission, conspiracy, complicity, or attempt to commit the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2907.02.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2901.13.
Sexual battery
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within 25 years after commission, conspiracy, complicity, or attempt to commit the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2907.03.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2901.13.
Unlawful sexual conduct with minor
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within 20 years after commission, conspiracy, complicity, or attempt to commit the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2907.04.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2901.13.
Gross sexual imposition
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within 20 years after commission, conspiracy, complicity, or attempt to commit the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2907.05.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2901.13.
Sexual imposition
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within 2 years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2907.06.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2901.13.
Commercial sexual depiction of a minor
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within 6 years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2907.19.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2901.13.
Pandering obscenity involving a minor or impaired person
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within 6 years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2907.19.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2901.13.
Importuning
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within 6 years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2907.07.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2901.13.
Voyeurism

The statute of limitations depends on the classification of the crime.

  1. If a felony, within six years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If a misdemeanor, within 2 years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2907.08.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2901.13.
Public indecency

The statute of limitations depends on the classification of the crime.

  1. If a felony, within six years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If a misdemeanor, within 2 years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2907.09.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2901.13.






Oklahoma What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Facilitating, encouraging, offering or soliciting sexual conduct or engaging in sexual communication with a minor or person believed to be a minor
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Okla. Stat. tit. 21, § 1040.13a
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Okla. Stat. tit. 22, § 152.
Nonconsensual dissemination of private sexual images
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Okla. Stat. tit. 21, § 1040.13b
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Okla. Stat. tit. 22, § 152.
Rape (Defined)
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence by the 45th birthday of an alleged victim who was under 18 at the time of the crime. 
  2. Prosecutions for such crimes committed against victims 18 years of age or older must be commenced within 12 years after discovery of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Okla. Stat. tit. 21, § 1111.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Okla. Stat. tit. 22, § 152. 
Rape by Instrumentation
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence by the 45th birthday of an alleged victim who was under 18 at the time of the crime. 
Rape in first degree -- second degree
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence by the 45th birthday of an alleged victim who was under 18 at the time of the crime.
  2. Prosecutions for such crimes committed against victims 18 years of age or older must be commenced within 12 years after discovery of the offense.
Abduction of person under fifteen (for marriage, concubinage, or any crime involving moral turpitude)
  1. Citation for the crime: Okla. Stat. tit. 21, § 1119.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Okla. Stat. tit. 22, § 152.
Lewd or indecent proposals or acts as to child under 16 or person believed to be under 16; sexual battery
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence by the 45th birthday of  an alleged victim who was under 18 at the time of the crime  alleged victim.
  2. Prosecutions for such crimes committed against victims 18 years of age or older must be commenced within 12 years after discovery of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Okla. Stat. tit. 21, § 1123.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Okla. Stat. tit. 22, § 152.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?
Child abuse--Child neglect--Child sexual abuse--Child sexual exploitation
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence by the 45th birthday of an alleged victim who was under 18 at the time of the crime. 
  1. Citation for the crime: Okla. Stat. tit. 21, § 843.5.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Okla. Stat. tit. 22, § 152. 
Crime Against Nature
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence by the 45th birthday of an alleged victim who was under 18 at the time of the crime.
  2. Prosecutions for such crimes committed against victims 18 years of age or older must be commenced within 12 years after discovery of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Okla. Stat. tit. 21, § 886.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Okla. Stat. tit. 22, § 152. 
Minors--Procuring for participation in pornography
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence by the 45th birthday of an alleged victim who was under 18 at the time of the crime. 
  1. Citation for the crime: Okla. Stat. tit. 21, § 1021.2
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Okla. Stat. tit. 22, § 152.
Guardians--Parents--Custodians--Consent to participation of minors in child pornography
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence by the 45th birthday of an alleged victim who was under 18 at the time of the crime. 
  1. Citation for the crime: Okla. Stat. tit. 21, § 1021.3
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Okla. Stat. tit. 22, § 152.
Incest
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Okla. Stat. tit. 21, § 885.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Okla. Stat. tit. 22, § 152.
Disclosure of obscene materials containing minors
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Okla. Stat. tit. 21, § 1021.4
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Okla. Stat. tit. 22, § 152.
Aggravated possession of child pornography
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence by the 45th birthday of an alleged victim who was under 18 at the time of the crime. 
  1. Citation for the crime: Okla. Stat. tit. 21, § 1040.12a
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Okla. Stat. tit. 22, § 152.
Indecent Exposure-Indecent Exhibitions-Obscene Material or Child Pornography-Solicitation of Minors
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Okla. Stat. tit. 21, § 1021.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Okla. Stat. tit. 22, § 152.
Forcible sodomy
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence by the 45th birthday of an alleged victim who was under 18 at the time of the crime.
  2. Prosecutions for such crimes committed against victims 18 years of age or older must be commenced within 12 years after discovery of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Okla. Stat. tit. 21, § 888.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Okla. Stat. tit. 22, § 152.






Oregon What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Rape, third degree
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within six years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, any time before victim reaches 30 or within 12 years after offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or the Department of Human Services, whichever occurs first.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.355.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.
Rape, second degree
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within six years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, any time before victim reaches 30 or within 12 years after offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or the Department of Human Services, whichever occurs first.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.365.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.
Rape, first degree
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within twenty years after commission of the offense or if victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, any time before victim reaches 30, whichever occurs later.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.375.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.
Sodomy, second degree
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within six years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, any time before victim reaches 30 or within 12 years after offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or the Department of Human Services, whichever occurs first.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.395.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.
Sodomy, first degree
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within twenty years after commission of the offense or if victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, any time before victim reaches 30, whichever occurs later.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.405.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.
Unlawful sexual penetration, second degree
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within six years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, any time before victim reaches 30 or within 12 years after offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or the Department of Human Services, whichever occurs first.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.408.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.
Unlawful sexual penetration, first degree
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within twenty years after commission of the offense or if victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, any time before victim reaches 30, whichever occurs later.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.411.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.
Sexual abuse, third degree
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within four years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, any time before victim reaches 22 or within four years after offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or the Department of Human Services, whichever occurs first.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.415.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.
Sexual abuse, second degree
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within six years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, any time before victim reaches 30 or within 12 years after offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or the Department of Human Services, whichever occurs first.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.425.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.
Sexual abuse, first degree
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within twenty years after commission of the offense or if victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, any time before victim reaches 30, whichever occurs later.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.427.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.
Contributing to the sexual delinquency of a minor
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within two years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.435.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.
Sexual misconduct
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within two years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.445.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.
Custodial sexual misconduct, first degree
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.452.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.
Custodial sexual misconduct, second degree
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within two years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.454.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.
Unlawful contact with a child
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.479.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.
Incest
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within six years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, any time before victim reaches 30 or within 12 years after offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or the Department of Human Services, whichever occurs first.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.525.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.
Sodomy, third degree
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within six years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, any time before victim reaches 30 or within 12 years after offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or the Department of Human Services, whichever occurs first.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.385.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.
Purchasing sex with a minor
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.413.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.      
Online sexual corruption of a child, second degree
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.432.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.
Online sexual corruption of a child, first degree
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.433.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?
Public indecency

The statute of limitations depends on the classification of the crime.

  1. If a felony, within three years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If a misdemeanor, within two years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.465.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.
Private indecency
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within two years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.467.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.
Unlawful dissemination of an intimate image

The statute of limitations depends on the classification of the crime.

  1. If a felony, within three years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If a misdemeanor, within two years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.472.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.
Unlawfully being in a location where children regularly congregate
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within two years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.476.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.
Using child in display of sexually explicit conduct
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within six years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, any time before victim reaches 30 or within 12 years after offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or the Department of Human Services, whichever occurs first.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.670.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.
Encouraging child sexual abuse, first degree
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within six years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If victim was under 18 at the time of commission of the offense, any time before victim reaches 30 or within 12 years after offense is reported to a law enforcement agency or the Department of Human Services, whichever occurs first.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.684.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.
Encouraging child sexual abuse, second degree
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.686.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.
Encouraging child sexual abuse, third degree
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within two years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Or. Rev. Stat. § 163.687.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Or. Rev. Stat. § 131.125.






Pennsylvania What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Sexual Extortion
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within two years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 3133.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 5552.
Rape
  1. A criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime, or for conspiracy or solicitation to commit an offense of this crime if the offense results from the conspiracy or solicitation, may be commenced at any time if the victim was under the age of 18 at the time of the offense; or
  2. If the victim was 18 or over the age of 18 at the time of the offense, a criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must be commenced within 12 years after commission of the crime; or
  3. If the offense is against an individual who is 23 years of age or younger, prosecution may commence any time up to the later of the period of limitation provided by law after the individual has reached 24 years of age or 20 years after the date of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 3121.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. §§ 5551, 5552.
Statutory sexual assault
  1. A criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime, or for conspiracy or solicitation to commit an offense of this crime if the offense results from the conspiracy or solicitation, may be commenced at any time if the victim was under the age of 18 at the time of the offense; or
  2. If the victim was 18 or over the age of 18 at the time of the offense, a criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must be commenced within 12 years after commission of the crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 3122.1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. §§ 5551, 5552.
Involuntary deviate sexual intercourse
  1. A criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime, or for conspiracy or solicitation to commit an offense of this crime if the offense results from the conspiracy or solicitation, may be commenced at any time if the victim was under the age of 18 at the time of the offense; or
  2. If the victim was 18 or over the age of 18 at the time of the offense, a criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must be commenced within 12 years after commission of the crime; or
  3. If the offense is against an individual who is 23 years of age or younger, prosecution may commence any time up to the later of the period of limitation provided by law after the individual has reached 24 years of age or 20 years after the date of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 3123.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. §§ 5551, 5552.
Sexual assault
  1. A criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime, or for conspiracy or solicitation to commit an offense of this crime if the offense results from the conspiracy or solicitation, may be commenced at any time if the victim was under the age of 18 at the time of the offense; or
  2. If the victim was 18 or over the age of 18 at the time of the offense, a criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must be commenced within 12 years after commission of the crime; or
  3. If the offense is against an individual who is 23 years of age or younger, prosecution may commence any time up to the later of the period of limitation provided by law after the individual has reached 24 years of age or 20 years after the date of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 3124.1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. §§ 5551, 5552.
Institutional sexual assault
  1. A criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime, or for conspiracy or solicitation to commit an offense of this crime if the offense results from the conspiracy or solicitation, may be commenced at any time if the victim was under the age of 18 at the time of the offense; or
  2. If the victim was 18 or over the age of 18 at the time of the offense, a criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must be commenced within 12 years after commission of the crime; or
  3. If the offense is against an individual who is 23 years of age or younger, prosecution may commence any time up to the later of the period of limitation provided by law after the individual has reached 24 years of age or 20 years after the date of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 3124.2.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. §§ 5551, 5552.
Aggravated indecent assault
  1. A criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime, or for conspiracy or solicitation to commit an offense of this crime if the offense results from the conspiracy or solicitation, may be commenced at any time if the victim was under the age of 18 at the time of the offense; or
  2. If the victim was 18 or over the age of 18 at the time of the offense, a criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must be commenced within 12 years after commission of the crime; or
  3. If the offense is against an individual who is 23 years of age or younger, prosecution may commence any time up to the later of the period of limitation provided by law after the individual has reached 24 years of age or 20 years after the date of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 3125.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. §§ 5551, 5552.
Indecent assault
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within two years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If the offense is against a minor who is less than 18 years of age, prosecution may commence any time up to the later of the period of limitation provided by law after the individual has reached 18 years of age or the date the minor reaches 55 years of age; or
  3. If the offense is against an individual who is 23 years of age or younger, prosecution may commence any time up to the later of the period of limitation provided by law after the individual has reached 24 years of age or 20 years after the date of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 3126.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 5552.
Incest
  1. A criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime, or for conspiracy or solicitation to commit an offense of this crime if the offense results from the conspiracy or solicitation, may be commenced at any time if the victim was under the age of 18 at the time of the offense; or
  2. If the victim was 18 or over the age of 18 at the time of the offense, a criminal action against the perpetrator of this crime must be commenced within 12 years after commission of the crime; or
  3. If the offense is against an individual who is 23 years of age or younger, prosecution may commence any time up to the later of the period of limitation provided by law after the individual has reached 24 years of age or 20 years after the date of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 4302.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. §§ 5551, 5552.
Sexual abuse of children
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within 12 years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If the offense is against a minor who is less than 18 years of age, prosecution may commence any time up to the later of the period of limitation provided by law after the individual has reached 18 years of age or the date the minor reaches 55 years of age.
  1. Citation for the crime: 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 6312.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 5552.
Sexual exploitation of children
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within two years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If the offense is against a minor who is less than 18 years of age, prosecution may commence any time up to the later of the period of limitation provided by law after the individual has reached 18 years of age or the date the minor reaches 55  years of age.
  1. Citation for the crime: 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 6320.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 5552.
Unlawful contact with a minor

A violation of this crime is classified as the more severe of either a third degree felony or other applicable sexual offense with which the perpetrator may be charged.

  1. If this crime is classified at a level equal to another applicable sexual offense, please see that sexual offense for the corresponding statute of limitations; or
  2. If this crime is classified as a third degree felony, then proceedings against the perpetrator must commence within two years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 6318.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 5552.
Sexual assault by sports official, volunteer, or employee of nonprofit association
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within two years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 3124.3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 5552.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?
Indecent exposure
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within two years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If the offense is against a minor who is less than 18 years of age, prosecution may commence any time up to the later of the period of limitation provided by law after the individual has reached 18 years of age or the date the minor reaches 55 years of age; or
  3. If the offense is against an individual who is 23 years of age or younger, prosecution may commence any time up to the later of the period of limitation provided by law after the individual has reached 24 years of age or 20 years after the date of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 3127.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 5552.
Sexual intercourse with animal
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within two years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 3129.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 5552.
Conduct relating to sex offenders
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within two years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 3130.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 5552.
Unlawful dissemination of intimate image
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within two years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 3131.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 5552.
Female Mutilation
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within two years after commission of the offense.
Trafficking in individuals as it relates to sexual servitude
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within two years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If the offense is against an individual who is 23 years of age or younger, prosecution may commence any time up to the later of the period of limitation provided by law after the individual has reached 24 years of age or 20 years after the date of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 3011.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 5552.
Involuntary sexual servitude
  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within two years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If the offense is against an individual who is 23 years of age or younger, prosecution may commence any time up to the later of the period of limitation provided by law after the individual has reached 24 years of age or 20 years after the date of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 3012.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 5552.






Puerto Rico What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Anything else I should know?
Sexual Assault

This crime is a felony.

  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within 20 years after the commission of the offense.
  2. No statute of limitations if the victim is under 18 years of age and the perpetrator is over the age of 18.
  3. In all other cases, if the victim has not yet turned 18 years old, the statute of limitations will not begin to run until the victim turns 18 years old.
  1. Citation for the crime: Puerto Rico Penal Code 2012-Article 130 (33 L.P.R.A. § 5191).
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Puerto Rico Penal Code 2012 - Articles 87, 88 and 89 (33 L.P.R.A. § 5132, § 5133 and § 5134).
Incest

This crime is a felony.

  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within 20 years after the commission of the offense.
  2. No statute of limitations if the victim is under 18 years of age and the perpetrator is over the age of 18.
  3. In all other cases, if the victim has not yet turned 18 years old, the statute of limitations will not begin to run until the victim turns 18 years old.
  1. Citation for the crime: Puerto Rico Penal Code 2012-Article 131 (33 L.P.R.A. § 5192).
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Puerto Rico Penal Code 2012 - Articles 87, 88 and 89 (33 L.P.R.A. § 5132, § 5133 and § 5134).
Lewd Acts

This crime is a felony.

  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within 20 years after the commission of the offense.
  2. No statute of limitations if the victim is under 18 years of age and the perpetrator is over the age of 18.
  3. In all other cases, if the victim has not yet turned 18 years old, the statute of limitations will not begin to run until the victim turns 18 years old.
  1. Citation for the crime: Puerto Rico Penal Code 2012-Article 133 (33 L.P.R.A. § 5194).
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Puerto Rico Penal Code 2012 - Articles 87, 88 and 89 (33 L.P.R.A. § 5132, § 5133 and § 5134).
Bestiality

This crime is a felony.

  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within 5 years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Puerto Rico Penal Code 2012-Article 134 (33 L.P.R.A. § 5195).
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Puerto Rico Penal Code 2012 - Articles 87 (33 L.P.R.A. § 5132).
Sexual Harassment

This crime is a felony.

  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within 5 years after the commission of the offense.
  2. If the victim has not yet turned 18 years old, the statute of limitations will not begin to run until the victim turns 18 years old.
  1. Citation for the crime: Puerto Rico Penal Code 2012-Article 135 (33 L.P.R.A. § 5196).
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Puerto Rico Penal Code 2012 - Articles 87 and 89 (33 L.P.R.A. § 5132 and § 5134).
Seduction of Minors Through the Internet or Electronic Means

This crime is a felony.

  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within 5 years after the commission of the offense.
  2. If the victim has not yet turned 18 years old, the statute of limitations will not begin to run until the victim turns 18 years old.
  1. Citation for the crime: Puerto Rico Penal Code 2012-Article 124 (33 L.P.R.A. § 5183).
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Puerto Rico Penal Code 2012 - Articles 87 and 89 (33 L.P.R.A. § 5132 and § 5134).
Use of a minor for child pornography

This crime is a felony.

  1. Prosecution against the perpetrator of this crime must commence within 5 years after the commission of the offense.
  2. No statute of limitations if the victim is under 18 years of age and the perpetrator is over the age of 18.
  3. In all other cases, if the victim has not yet turned 18 years old, the statute of limitations will not begin to run until the victim turns 18 years old.
  1. Citation for the crime: Puerto Rico Penal Code 2012-Article 148 (33 L.P.R.A. § 5209).
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Puerto Rico Penal Code 2012 - Articles 87, 88 and 89 (33 L.P.R.A. § 5132, § 5133, § 5134).






Rhode Island What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Sexual assault, first degree
  1. No time limit.
  1. Citation for the crime: R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-37-2.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: R.I. Gen. Laws § 12-12-17.
Sexual assault, second degree
  1. Within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-37-4.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: R.I. Gen. Laws § 12-12-17.
Sexual assault, third degree
  1. Within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-37-6.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: R.I. Gen. Laws § 12-12-17.
Child molestation sexual assault, first degree
  1. No time limit.
  1. Citation for the crime: R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-37-8.1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: R.I. Gen. Laws § 12-12-17.
Child molestation sexual assault, second degree
  1. No time limit.
  1. Citation for the crime: R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-37-8.3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: R.I. Gen. Laws § 12-12-17.
Anything else I should know?
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?






South Carolina What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Criminal sexual conduct, first degree
  1. No statute of limitations for criminal offenses.
  1. Citation for the crime: S.C. Code Ann. § 16-3-652.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: No statute of limitations for sexual offenses.
Criminal sexual conduct, second degree
  1. No statute of limitations for criminal offenses.
  1. Citation for the crime: S.C. Code Ann. § 16-3-653.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: No statute of limitations for sexual offenses.
Criminal sexual conduct, third degree
  1. No statute of limitations for criminal offenses.
  1. Citation for the crime: S.C. Code Ann. § 16-3-654.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: No statute of limitations for sexual offenses.
Criminal sexual conduct with a minor; aggravating and mitigating circumstances; penalties; repeat offenders
  1. No statute of limitations for criminal offenses.
  1. Citation for the crime: S.C. Code Ann. § 16-3-655.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: No statute of limitations for sexual offenses.
Sexual battery with a student
  1. No statute of limitations for criminal offenses.
  1. Citation for the crime: S.C. Code Ann. § 16-3-755.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: No statute of limitations for sexual offenses.
Incest
  1. No statute of limitations for criminal offenses.
  1. Citation for the crime: S.C. Code Ann. § 16-15-20.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: No statute of limitations for sexual offenses.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?






South Dakota What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Rape
  • Rape in the first degree is a Class C felony if sexual penetration occurs with a victim under 13.
  • Rape in the second degree is a Class 1 felony if sexual penetration occurs through the use of force, coercion, or threats of immediate and great bodily harm against victim or other persons within victim’s presence, accompanied by apparent power of execution.
  • Rape in the third degree is a Class 2 felony if sexual penetration occurs and victim is incapable of giving consent to such act because of physical or mental incapacity (and the perpetrator knows or reasonably should know of the victim’s incapacity), or because of any intoxicating, narcotic, or anesthetic agent or hypnosis (and the perpetrator knows or reasonably should know the victim is incapable of giving consent).
  • Rape in the fourth degree is a Class 3 felony if sexual penetration occurs and victim is at least 13 but under 16, and offender is at least three years older than victim or if sexual penetration occurs without the victim’s consent and the perpetrator knows or reasonably should know the victim is not consenting.

The statute of limitations depends on the degree and class of the crime:

  1. No time limit for first or second degree rape.
  2. No time limit for a Class C felony. 
  3. For third or fourth degree rape, within seven years after commission of the offense or any time prior to the date victim reaches 25, whichever period is longer.
  1. Citation for the crime: S.D. Codified Laws § 22-22-1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: S.D. Codified Laws § 22-22-1; S.D. Codified Laws § 23A-42-2.
Sexual contact with person under 16

This crime is a: (a) Class 1 misdemeanor if victim is at least 13 years of age and offender is less than five years older than victim; and (b) Class 3 felony if victim is under 16 and offender is 16 years of age or older and knowingly engages in sexual contact with the victim.

  1. The time limit is within seven years after commission of the offense or any time prior to the date victim reaches 25, whichever period is longer.
  1. Citation for the crime: S.D. Codified Laws § 22-22-7.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: S.D. Codified Laws § 22-22-7.
Sexual contact with person incapable of consent

Sexual contact perpetrated by a person 15 years or older, with another person who is 16 years or older and is incapable of consent is a Class 4 felony.

  1. The time limit is within seven years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: S.D. Codified Laws § 22-22-7.2.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: S.D. Codified Laws § 23A-42-2.
Sexual contact with person under 16 by person under 16

Sexual contact with a person under 16 by a person under 16 is a Class 1 misdemeanor.

  1. The time limit is within seven years after commission of the offense.

 
  1. Citation for the crime: S.D. Codified Laws § 22-22-7.3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: S.D. Codified Laws § 23A-42-2.
Sexual contact without consent

Sexual contact without consent is a Class 1 misdemeanor and the offender must be at least 15.

Sexual contact without consent when the offender is a registered sex offender at the time of the offense is a Class 6 felony.

  1. The time limit is within seven years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: S.D. Codified Laws § 22-22-7.4.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: S.D. Codified Laws § 23A-42-2.
Sexual contact or penetration by correctional facility employee with inmate

Sexual contact or penetration by a correctional facility employee with an inmate that does not otherwise constitute a felony under chapter 22-22 is a Class 6 felony if the victim is an adult and a Class 4 felony if the victim is a juvenile.

  1. The time limit is within seven years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: S.D. Codified Laws § 22-22-7.6.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: S.D. Codified Laws § 23A-42-2.
Subsequent conviction of rape of or sexual contact with a child under 16

Class 2 felony if offender has a previous conviction for violation of § 22-22-1(5) (sexual penetration occurs and victim is at least 13 but under 16 and offender is at least three years older than victim) or § 22-22-7 (sexual contact with person under 16).

  1. The time limit is within seven years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: S.D. Codified Laws § 22-22-7.7.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: S.D. Codified Laws § 23A-42-2.
Sexual exploitation of a minor

A person is guilty of sexual exploitation of a minor if the person causes or knowingly permits a minor to engage in an activity or the simulation of an activity that:

(1) Is harmful to minors;

(2) Involves nudity; or

(3) Is obscene.

This crime is a Class 6 felony, or a Class 5 felony if the offender is convicted of a second or subsequent violation within 15 years of the prior conviction.

  1. The time limit is within seven years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: S.D. Codified Laws § 22-22-24.3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: S.D. Codified Laws § 23A-42-2.
Sexual contact by psychotherapist

Sexual contact with emotionally dependent patient by a psychotherapist at the time of contact is a Class 5 felony.

  1. The time limit is within seven years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: S.D. Codified Laws § 22-22-28.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: S.D. Codified Laws § 23A-42-2.
Sexual penetration by psychotherapist

Sexual penetration of emotionally dependent patient by a psychotherapist at the time of penetration is a Class 4 felony.

  1. The time limit is within seven years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: S.D. Codified Laws § 22-22-29.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: S.D. Codified Laws § 23A-42-2.
Incest

Incest is a Class 5 felony.

  1. The time limit is within seven years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: S.D. Codified Laws § 22-22A-2.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: S.D. Codified Laws § 23A-42-2.
Aggravated incest—Related Child

Aggravated incest is a Class 3 felony.

  1. The time limit is within seven years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: S.D. Codified Laws § 22-22A-3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: S.D. Codified Laws § 23A-42-2.
Aggravated incest—Foster Child

Aggravated incest is a Class 3 felony.

  1. The time limit is within seven years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: S.D. Codified Laws § 22-22A-3.1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: S.D. Codified Laws § 23A-42-2.
Anything else I should know?
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?






Tennessee What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Aggravated rape

Aggravated rape is a Class A felony.

  1. The time limit is within 15 years after the commission of the crime.
  2. When committed against a child prior to July 1, 1997, within 4 years of the commission of the offense or by the time the child attains the age of majority, whichever occurs later.
  3. When committed against a child on or after July 1, 1997, but prior to June 20, 2006, no later than when the child reaches 21, or within 15 years of the commission of the crime, whichever is later.
  4. When committed against a child on or after June 20, 2006, but prior to July 1, 2014, no later than 25 years from the date on which victim attains the age of 18.
  5. If the victim was an adult at the time of the offense and notifies law enforcement of the office of the attorney general within 3 years of the offense, and the offense was committed on or after July 1, 2014, or prior to July 1, 2014, unless prosecution is barred because the applicable time limitation expired prior to July 1, 2014, then there is no time limitation.
  6. When committed against a minor under 18, any time after the commission of the offense if: (A) the victim was under 13 at the time of the offense; or (B) (i) the victim was at least 13 years of age but no more than 17 years of age at the time of the offense, and (ii) the victim reported the offense to another person prior to the victim attaining 23 years of age.  (X) Except as provided in (Y), a person may be prosecuted, tried and punished for the above-listed offenses at any time after the commission of an offense if: (i) the victim was at least 13 years of age but no more than 17 years of age at the time of the offense, and (ii) the victim did not meet the reporting requirements of (Y).  (Y) In order to commence prosecution for an offense listed above under the circumstances described in (X), at a date that is more than 25 years from the date the victim becomes 18, the prosecution is required to offer admissible and credible evidence corroborating the allegations or similar acts by the defendant.  This Section applies to offenses committed on or after July 1, 2019 or committed prior to July 1, 2019, unless prosecution for the offense is barred because the applicable time limitation expired prior to July 1, 2019.
  1. Citation for the crime: Tenn. Code § 39-13-502.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Tenn. Code § 40-2-101.
Rape

Rape is a Class B felony.

  1. The time limit is within 8 years of the commission of the offense.
  2. When committed against a child prior to July 1, 1997, within 4 years of the commission of the offense or by the time the child attains the age of majority, whichever occurs later.
  3. When committed against a child on or after July 1, 1997, but prior to June 20, 2006, no later than when the child reaches 21, or within 8 years of the commission of the crime, whichever is later.
  4. When committed against a child on or after June 20, 2006, but prior to July 1, 2014, no later than 25 years from the date on which victim attains the age of 18.
  5. If the victim was an adult at the time of the offense and notifies law enforcement of the office of the attorney general within 3 years of the offense, and the offense was committed on or after July 1, 2014, or prior to July 1, 2014, unless prosecution is barred because the applicable time limitation expired prior to July 1, 2014, then there is no time limitation.
  6. When committed against a minor under 18, any time after the commission of the offense if: (A) the victim was under 13 at the time of the offense; or (B) (i) the victim was at least 13 years of age but no more than 17 years of age at the time of the offense, and (ii) the victim reported the offense to another person prior to the victim attaining 23 years of age.  (X) Except as provided in (Y), a person may be prosecuted, tried and punished for the above-listed offenses at any time after the commission of an offense if: (i) the victim was at least 13 years of age but no more than 17 years of age at the time of the offense, and (ii) the victim did not meet the reporting requirements of (Y).  (Y) In order to commence prosecution for an offense listed above under the circumstances described in (X), at a date that is more than 25 years from the date the victim becomes 18, the prosecution is required to offer admissible and credible evidence corroborating the allegations or similar acts by the defendant.  This Section applies to offenses committed on or after July 1, 2019 or committed prior to July 1, 2019, unless prosecution for the offense is barred because the applicable time limitation expired prior to July 1, 2019.
  1. Citation for the crime: Tenn. Code § 39-13-503.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Tenn. Code § 40-2-101.
Aggravated sexual battery

Aggravated sexual battery is a Class B felony.

  1. The time limit is within 8 years of the commission of the offense.
  2. When committed against a child prior to July 1, 1997, within 4 years of the commission of the offense or by the time the child attains the age of majority, whichever occurs later.
  3. When committed against a child on or after July 1, 1997, but prior to June 20, 2006, no later than when the child reaches 21, or within 8 years of the commission of the crime, whichever is later.
  4. When committed against a child on or after June 20, 2006, no later than 25 years from the date on which victim attains the age of 18.
  5. When committed against a minor under 18, any time after the commission of the offense if: (A) the victim was under 13 at the time of the offense; or (B) (i) the victim was at least 13 years of age but no more than 17 years of age at the time of the offense, and (ii) the victim reported the offense to another person prior to the victim attaining 23 years of age. (X) Except as provided in (Y), a person may be prosecuted, tried and punished for the above-listed offenses at any time after the commission of an offense if: (i) the victim was at least 13 years of age but no more than 17 years of age at the time of the offense, and (ii) the victim did not meet the reporting requirements of (Y). (Y) In order to commence prosecution for an offense listed above under the circumstances described in (X), at a date that is more than 25 years from the date the victim becomes 18, the prosecution is required to offer admissible and credible evidence corroborating the allegations or similar acts by the defendant. This Section applies to offenses committed on or after July 1, 2019 or committed prior to July 1, 2019, unless prosecution for the offense is barred because the applicable time limitation expired prior to July 1, 2019.
  1. Citation for the crime: Tenn. Code § 39-13-504.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Tenn. Code § 40-2-101.
Sexual battery

Sexual battery is a Class E felony.

  1. The time limit is within 2 years of the commission of the offense.
  2. When committed against a child prior to July 1, 1997, within 4 years of the commission of the offense or by the time the child attains the age of majority, whichever occurs later.
  3. When committed against a child on or after July 1, 1997, but prior to June 20, 2006, no later than when the child reaches 21, or within 2 years of the commission of the crime, whichever is later.
  4. When committed against a child on or after June 20, 2006, no later than 25 years from the date on which victim attains the age of 18.
  5. When committed against a minor under 18, any time after the commission of the offense if: (A) the victim was under 13 at the time of the offense; or (B) (i) the victim was at least 13 years of age but no more than 17 years of age at the time of the offense, and (ii) the victim reported the offense to another person prior to the victim attaining 23 years of age. (X) Except as provided in (Y), a person may be prosecuted, tried and punished for the above-listed offenses at any time after the commission of an offense if: (i) the victim was at least 13 years of age but no more than 17 years of age at the time of the offense, and (ii) the victim did not meet the reporting requirements of (Y). (Y) In order to commence prosecution for an offense listed above under the circumstances described in (X), at a date that is more than 25 years from the date the victim becomes 18, the prosecution is required to offer admissible and credible evidence corroborating the allegations or similar acts by the defendant. This Section applies to offenses committed on or after July 1, 2019 or committed prior to July 1, 2019, unless prosecution for the offense is barred because the applicable time limitation expired prior to July 1, 2019.
  1. Citation for the crime: Tenn. Code § 39-13-505.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Tenn. Code § 40-2-101.
Statutory rape

This crime is:

  • Mitigated statutory rape, Class E felony, if victim is at least 15 but under 18, and offender is at least four but not more than five years older than victim.
  • Statutory rape, Class E felony, if:
    • Victim is at least 13 but under 15, and offender is at least four years older but less than 10 years older than victim, or
    • Victim is at least 15 but under 18, and offender is more than five years older but less than 10 years older than victim.
  • Aggravated statutory rape, Class D felony, if victim is at least 13 but under 18, and offender is at least 10 years older than victim.

The statute of limitations depends on the Class of the felony:

  1. For a Class E felony, within two years after commission of the offense; or
  2. For aggravated statutory rape, if offense is committed on or after July 1, 2016, then within 15 years from the date the victim becomes 18, but if offense is committed before July 1, 2016, then within 4 years from the date of the offense.
  3. For a Class D felony, within four years after commission of the offense.
  4. When committed against a minor under 18, any time after the commission of the offense if: (A) the victim was under 13 at the time of the offense; or (B) (i) the victim was at least 13 years of age but no more than 17 years of age at the time of the offense, and (ii) the victim reported the offense to another person prior to the victim attaining 23 years of age. (X) Except as provided in (Y), a person may be prosecuted, tried and punished for the above-listed offenses at any time after the commission of an offense if: (i) the victim was at least 13 years of age but no more than 17 years of age at the time of the offense, and (ii) the victim did not meet the reporting requirements of (Y). (Y) In order to commence prosecution for an offense listed above under the circumstances described in (X), at a date that is more than 25 years from the date the victim becomes 18, the prosecution is required to offer admissible and credible evidence corroborating the allegations or similar acts by the defendant. This Section applies to offenses committed on or after July 1, 2019 or committed prior to July 1, 2019, unless prosecution for the offense is barred because the applicable time limitation expired prior to July 1, 2019.
  1. Citation for the crime: Tenn. Code § 39-13-506.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Tenn. Code § 40-2-101.    
Rape of a child more than eight but under 13

Rape of a child more than eight but under 13 is a Class A felony

  1. When committed against a child on or after July 1, 1997, but prior to June 20, 2006, within 15 years of the commission of the offense or by the time the child attains the age of 21, whichever occurs later.
  2. When committed against a child on or after June 20, 2006, but prior to July 1, 2014, no later than 25 years from the date on which victim attains the age of 18.
  3. When committed against a minor under 18, any time after the commission of the offense if: (A) the victim was under 13 at the time of the offense; or (B) (i) the victim was at least 13 years of age but no more than 17 years of age at the time of the offense, and (ii) the victim reported the offense to another person prior to the victim attaining 23 years of age. (X) Except as provided in (Y), a person may be prosecuted, tried and punished for the above-listed offenses at any time after the commission of an offense if: (i) the victim was at least 13 years of age but no more than 17 years of age at the time of the offense, and (ii) the victim did not meet the reporting requirements of (Y). (Y) In order to commence prosecution for an offense listed above under the circumstances described in (X), at a date that is more than 25 years from the date the victim becomes 18, the prosecution is required to offer admissible and credible evidence corroborating the allegations or similar acts by the defendant. This Section applies to offenses committed on or after July 1, 2019 or committed prior to July 1, 2019, unless prosecution for the offense is barred because the applicable time limitation expired prior to July 1, 2019.
  1. Citation for the crime: Tenn. Code § 39-13-522.
  2. Citation for the crime: Tenn. Code § 40-2-101.
Sexual battery by an authority figure

Sexual battery by an authority figure is a Class C felony.

  1. The time limit is within 4 years after the commission of the crime.
  2. When committed against a child on or after June 20, 2006, no later than 25 years from the date on which victim attains the age of 18.
  3. When committed against a minor under 18, any time after the commission of the offense if: (A) the victim was under 13 at the time of the offense; or (B) (i) the victim was at least 13 years of age but no more than 17 years of age at the time of the offense, and (ii) the victim reported the offense to another person prior to the victim attaining 23 years of age. (X) Except as provided in (Y), a person may be prosecuted, tried and punished for the above-listed offenses at any time after the commission of an offense if: (i) the victim was at least 13 years of age but no more than 17 years of age at the time of the offense, and (ii) the victim did not meet the reporting requirements of (Y). (Y) In order to commence prosecution for an offense listed above under the circumstances described in (X), at a date that is more than 25 years from the date the victim becomes 18, the prosecution is required to offer admissible and credible evidence corroborating the allegations or similar acts by the defendant. This Section applies to offenses committed on or after July 1, 2019 or committed prior to July 1, 2019, unless prosecution for the offense is barred because the applicable time limitation expired prior to July 1, 2019.
  1. Citation for the crime: Tenn. Code § 39-13-527.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Tenn. Code § 40-2-101.
Aggravated rape of a child eight years or less

Aggravated rape of a child eight years or less is a Class A felony.

  1. When committed against a child on or after June 1, 2007, but prior to July 1, 2014, no later than 25 years from the date on which victim attains the age of 18.
  2. When committed against a minor under 18 any time after the commission of the offense if: (A) the victim was under 13 at the time of the offense; or (B) (i) the victim was at least 13 years of age but no more than 17 years of age at the time of the offense, and (ii) the victim reported the offense to another person prior to the victim attaining 23 years of age. (X) Except as provided in (Y), a person may be prosecuted, tried and punished for the above-listed offenses at any time after the commission of an offense if: (i) the victim was at least 13 years of age but no more than 17 years of age at the time of the offense, and (ii) the victim did not meet the reporting requirements of (Y). (Y) In order to commence prosecution for an offense listed above under the circumstances described in (X), at a date that is more than 25 years from the date the victim becomes 18, the prosecution is required to offer admissible and credible evidence corroborating the allegations or similar acts by the defendant. This Section applies to offenses committed on or after July 1, 2019 or committed prior to July 1, 2019, unless prosecution for the offense is barred because the applicable time limitation expired prior to July 1, 2019.
  1. Citation for the crime: Tenn. Code § 39-13-531.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Tenn. Code § 40-2-101.
Statutory rape by an authority figure

Statutory rape by an authority figure is a Class B felony.

  1. The time limit is within 8 years of the commission of the offense.
  2. When committed against a child on or after July 1, 2007, no later than 25 years from the date on which victim attains the age of 18.
  3. When committed against a minor under 18 any time after the commission of the offense if: (A) the victim was under 13 at the time of the offense; or (B) (i) the victim was at least 13 years of age but no more than 17 years of age at the time of the offense, and (ii) the victim reported the offense to another person prior to the victim attaining 23 years of age. (X) Except as provided in (Y), a person may be prosecuted, tried and punished for the above-listed offenses at any time after the commission of an offense if: (i) the victim was at least 13 years of age but no more than 17 years of age at the time of the offense, and (ii) the victim did not meet the reporting requirements of (Y). (Y) In order to commence prosecution for an offense listed above under the circumstances described in (X), at a date that is more than 25 years from the date the victim becomes 18, the prosecution is required to offer admissible and credible evidence corroborating the allegations or similar acts by the defendant. This Section applies to offenses committed on or after July 1, 2019 or committed prior to July 1, 2019, unless prosecution for the offense is barred because the applicable time limitation expired prior to July 1, 2019.
  1. Citation for the crime: Tenn. Code § 39-13-532.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Tenn. Code § 40-2-101.
Incest

Incest is a Class C felony unless the victim is a minor, in which case it is a Class B felony.

  1. The time limit is within 4 years after the commission of the offense for a Class C felony and 8 years after the commission of the offense for a Class B felony;
  2. When committed against a child prior to July 1, 1997, within 4 years after commission of the offense or by the time the child attains the age of majority, whichever occurs later;
  3. When committed against a child on or after July 1, 1997, but prior to June 20, 2006, within 4 years of the commission of the offense or by the time the child attains the age of 21, whichever occurs later;
  4. When committed against a child on or after June 20, 2006, no later than 25 years from the date on which victim attains the age of 18.
  5. When committed against a minor under 18 any time after the commission of the offense if: (A) the victim was under 13 at the time of the offense; or (B) (i) the victim was at least 13 years of age but no more than 17 years of age at the time of the offense, and (ii) the victim reported the offense to another person prior to the victim attaining 23 years of age.  (X) Except as provided in (Y), a person may be prosecuted, tried and punished for the above-listed offenses at any time after the commission of an offense if: (i) the victim was at least 13 years of age but no more than 17 years of age at the time of the offense, and (ii) the victim did not meet the reporting requirements of (Y).  (Y) In order to commence prosecution for an offense listed above under the circumstances described in (X), at a date that is more than 25 years from the date the victim becomes 18, the prosecution is required to offer admissible and credible evidence corroborating the allegations or similar acts by the defendant.  This Section applies to offenses committed on or after July 1, 2019 or committed prior to July 1, 2019, unless prosecution for the offense is barred because the applicable time limitation expired prior to July 1, 2019.
  1. Citation for the crime: Tenn. Code § 39-15-302.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Tenn. Code § 40-2-101.
Anything else I should know?
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?






Texas What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Anything else I should know?
Continuous sexual abuse of a young child or children
  1. There is no time imit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Tex. Penal Code § 21.02.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 12.01.
Improper relationship between educator and student
  1. The time limit is within 3 years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Tex. Penal Code § 21.12.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 12.01.
Sexual assault

Note: “Child” means a person younger than 17 years of age.

  1. The time limit is within 10 years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If the crime is committed against a child, then no time limit.
  3. If the offense does not involve a child, there are two circumstances in which there is no time limit, specifically, (i) during the investigation of the offense biological matter is collected and the matter: (a) has not yet been subjected to forensic DNA testing; or (b) has been subjected to forensic DNA testing and the testing results show that the matter does not match the victim or any other person whose identity is readily ascertained; or (ii) probable cause exists to believe that the defendant has committed the same or a similar sex offense against five or more victims.
  4. The time limit is 2 years from the date the offense was discovered if the offense is punishable as a state jail felony under 22.011(f)(2), meaning an offense under 22.011(a)(1) and the actor is a health care services provider who, in the course of performing an assisted reproduction procedure on the other person, uses human reproductive material from a donor knowing that the other person has not expressly consented to the use of material from that donor.
  1. Citation for the crime: Tex. Penal Code § 22.011.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 12.01.
Indecent assault

The time limit is within 2 years after the commission of the offense except the time limit is within 3 years after the commission of the offense if the defendant has been previously convicted for this offense or if the defendant is a health care provider and the act is committed during the course of providing treatment to the victim and is beyond the scope of the generally accepted practices for the treatment.
  1. Citation for the crime: Tex. Penal Code § 22.012.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 12.01 and art. 12.02.
Aggravated sexual assault

Note: “Child” means a person younger than 17 years of age.

  1. The time limit is within 10 years after the commission of the offense; or
  2. If the crime is committed against a child, then no time limit. 
  1. Citation for the crime: Tex. Penal Code § 22.021.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 12.01.
Prohibited sexual conduct
  1. The time limit is within 3 years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Tex. Penal Code § 25.02.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 12.01.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Indecency with a child
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Tex. Penal Code § 21.11.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 12.01.






Utah What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Unlawful sexual activity with a minor

This crime is a:

  1. Felony; or
  2. Misdemeanor if the offender is less than 4 years older than the minor victim at the time the sexual activity occurred or if the offender was younger than 21 at the time the sexual activity occurred.

The time limit depends on the type of crime:

  1. Within 10 years from the time the victim reaches the age of 18 when it is a felony; or
  2. Within 2 years after commission of the offense when it is a misdemeanor. 
  1. Citation for the crime: Utah Code Ann. § 76-5-401.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Utah Code Ann. § 76-1-302, § 76-1-301.1.
Sexual abuse of a minor
  1. The time limit is within 2 years after commission of the offense.
  2. However, if at the time of the offense the actor is over 18, held a position of special trust as at teacher or volunteer at a school, and committed the offense against an individual who at the time of the offense was enrolled as a student where the actor was employed or volunteered, the time limit is 4 years.
  1. Citation for the crime: Utah Code Ann. § 76-5-401.1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Utah Code Ann. § 76-1-302, § 76-3-203.13.
Unlawful sexual conduct with a 16 or 17 year old

This crime is a :

  1. Felony unless the offender touches the anus, buttocks, or any part of the genitals of the minor, or touches the breast of a female minor, or otherwise takes indecent liberties with the minor, with the intent to cause substantial emotional or bodily pain or with the intent to arouse or gratify the sexual desires of the actor, in which case the crime is a misdemeanor. However, even when designated as a misdemeanor, this conduct is classified as a felony if at the time of the offense the actor is over 18, held a position of special trust as at teacher or volunteer at a school, and committed the offense against an individual who at the time of the offense was enrolled as a student where the actor was employed or volunteered. 

The time limit depends on the type of crime:

  1. Within 4 years after commission of the offense when it is a felony; or
  2. Within 2 years after commission of the offense when it is a misdemeanor.
  1. Citation for the crime: Utah Code Ann. § 76-5-401.2.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Utah Code Ann. § 76-1-302, § 76-1-301.1, § 76-3-203.13.
Rape
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Utah Code Ann. § 76-5-402.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Utah Code Ann. § 76-1-301
Rape of a child under 14
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Utah Code Ann. § 76-5-402.1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Utah Code Ann. § 76-1-301.
Object rape of a person 14 and older
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Utah Code Ann. § 76-5-402.2.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Utah Code Ann. § 76-1-301.
Object rape of a child
  1. There is no limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Utah Code Ann. § 76-5-402.3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Utah Code Ann. § 76-1-301.
Forcible sodomy
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Utah Code Ann. § 76-5-403.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Utah Code Ann. § 76-1-301.
Sodomy on a child
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Utah Code Ann. § 76-5-403.1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Utah Code Ann. § 76-1-301.
Forcible sexual abuse
  1. The time limit is within 8 years after the commission of the offense, provided that the offense was reported to a law enforcement agency within 4 years after the commission of the offense, otherwise the time limit is 4 years.
  1. Citation for the crime: Utah Code Ann. § 76-5-404.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Utah Code Ann. § 76-1-302.
Sexual abuse of a child; aggravated sexual abuse of a child
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Utah Code Ann. § 76-5-404.1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Utah Code Ann. § 76-1-301.
Aggravated sexual assault
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Utah Code Ann. § 76-5-405.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Utah Code Ann. § 76-1-301.
Custodial sexual relations
  1. The time limit is within 4 years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Utah Code Ann. § 76-5-412.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Utah Code Ann. § 76-1-302.
Custodial sexual misconduct
  1. The time limit is within 2 years after the commission of the offense, unless the victim is under 18, in which case the time limit is still 4 years.
  1. Citation for the crime: Utah Code Ann. § 76-5-412.2.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Utah Code Ann. § 76-1-302.
Incest
  1. The time limit is within 8 years after the offense is committed, provided that the offense was reported to a law enforcement agency within 4 years after commission of the offense; otherwise, the time limit is 4 years.
  1. Citation for the crime: Utah Code Ann. § 76-7-102.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Utah Code Ann. § 76-1-302.
Custodial sexual relations or misconduct with youth receiving state services
  1. The time limit is within 4 years after the commission of the offense. 
  1. Citation for the crime: Utah Code Ann. § 76-5-413, § 76-5-413.2.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Utah Code Ann. § 76-1-302.
Anything else I should know?
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Unlawful adolescent sexual activity
  1. Within 4 years after commission of the offense when it is a felony; or
  2. Within 2 years after commission of the offense when it is a misdemeanor.
  1. Citation for the crime: Utah Code Ann. § 76-5-401.3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Utah Code Ann. § 76-1-302






Vermont What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Sexual exploitation of a person who is being investigated, detained, arrested, or is in the custody of a law enforcement officer
  1. The time limit is within 3 years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: VT. Stat. Ann tit. 13, § 3258
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Vt. Stat. Ann. tit.13, § 4501.
Sexual abuse (of a vulnerable adult)
  1. The time limit is within 6 years after the commission of the offense.
  2. However, the time limit is within 40 years after the commission of the offense if: (i) the vulnerable adult does not consent to the sexual activity; or (ii) the perpetrator knows or should know that the vulnerable adult is incapable of resisting, declining, or consenting to the sexual activity due to his or her specific vulnerability or due to fear of retribution or hardship.
  1. Citation for the crime: Vt. Stat. Ann. tit.13, § 1379.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Vt. Stat. Ann. tit.13, § 4501.
Sexual assault
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Vt. Stat. Ann. tit.13, § 3252.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Vt. Stat. Ann. tit.13, § 4501.
Aggravated sexual assault
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Vt. Stat. Ann. tit.13, § 3253.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Vt. Stat. Ann. tit.13, § 4501.
Aggravated sexual assault of a child
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Vt. Stat. Ann. tit.13, § 3253a.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Vt. Stat. Ann. tit.13, § 4501.
Sexual exploitation of a person under the supervision of the Department of Corrections
  1. The time limit is within 3 years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Vt. Stat. Ann. tit.13, § 3259.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Vt. Stat. Ann. tit.13, § 4501.
Sexual exploitation of a minor
  1. There is no time limit for this crime if the offender abuses his or her position of power, authority, or supervision over the minor in order to engage in a sexual act; otherwise the time limit is within 40 years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Vt. Stat. Ann. tit.13, § 3258.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Vt. Stat. Ann. tit.13, § 4501.
Lewd and lascivious conduct
  1. The time limit is within 6 years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Vt. Stat. Ann. tit.13, § 2601.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Vt. Stat. Ann. tit.13, § 4501.
Lewd or lascivious conduct with child under 16
  1. The time limit is within 40 years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Vt. Stat. Ann. tit.13, § 2602.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Vt. Stat. Ann. tit.13, § 4501.
Fornication by persons prohibited to marry
  1. The time limit is within 3 years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Vt. Stat. Ann. tit.13, § 205.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Vt. Stat. Ann. tit.13, § 4501.
Human Trafficking
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Vt. Stat. Ann. tit.13, § 2652.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Vt. Stat. Ann. tit.13, § 4501.
Aggravated human trafficking
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Vt. Stat. Ann. tit.13, § 2653.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Vt. Stat. Ann. tit.13, § 4501.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?
Anything else I should know?






Virgin Islands What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Aggravated rape, first degree
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: V.I. Code Ann. tit. 14, § 1700.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: V.I. Code Ann. tit. 5, § 3541.
Aggravated rape, second degree
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: V.I. Code Ann. tit. 14, § 1700a.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: V.I. Code Ann. tit. 5, § 3541.
Rape, first degree
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: V.I. Code Ann. tit. 14, § 1701.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: V.I. Code Ann. tit. 5, § 3541.
Rape, second degree
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: V.I. Code Ann. tit. 14, § 1702.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: V.I. Code Ann. tit. 5, § 3541.
Rape, third degree
  1. The time limit is one year from the date of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: V.I. Code Ann. tit. 14, § 1703.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: V.I. Code Ann. tit. 5, § 3541; V.I. Code Ann. tit. 14, § 3.
Unlawful sexual contact, first degree
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: V.I. Code Ann. tit. 14, § 1708.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: V.I. Code Ann. tit. 5, § 3541.
Unlawful sexual contact, second degree
  1. The time limit is one year from the date of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: V.I. Code Ann. tit. 14, § 1709.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: V.I. Code Ann. tit. 5, § 3541.
Incest
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: V.I. Code Ann. tit. 14, § 961.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: V.I. Code Ann. tit. 5, § 3541.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?






Virginia What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Rape
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Va. Code § 18.2-61.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Va. Code § 19.2-8; Foster v. Virginia, 606 S.E. 2d 518, (Va. Ct. App. 2004).
Carnal knowledge of child between 13 and 15
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Va. Code § 18.2-63.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Va. Code § 19.2-8; Foster v. Virginia, 606 S.E. 2d 518, (Va. Ct. App. 2004).
Carnal knowledge of certain minors
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Va. Code § 18.2-64.1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Va. Code § 19.2-8; Foster v. Virginia, 606 S.E. 2d 518, (Va. Ct. App. 2004).
Carnal knowledge of a person detained or arrested by a law-enforcement officer or an inmate, parolee, probationer, detainee, or pre-trial or post-trial offender
  1. There is no time limit for this crime when a felony.
  2. If the victim was under 18 at the time of the offense, and the offense is a misdemeanor, the time limit is within one year after the victim reaches majority, unless the alleged offender of such offense was an adult and more than three years older than the victim at the time of the offense, in which instance such prosecution must be commenced no later than five years after the victim reaches majority.
  1. Citation for the crime: Va. Code § 18.2-64.2.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Va. Code § 19.2-8; Foster v. Virginia, 606 S.E. 2d 518, (Va. Ct. App. 2004).
Forcible sodomy
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Va. Code § 18.2-67.1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Va. Code § 19.2-8; Foster v. Virginia, 606 S.E. 2d 518, (Va. Ct. App. 2004).
Object sexual penetration
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Va. Code § 18.2-67.2.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Va. Code § 19.2-8; Foster v. Virginia, 606 S.E. 2d 518, (Va. Ct. App. 2004).
Aggravated sexual battery
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Va. Code § 18.2-67.3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Va. Code § 19.2-8; Foster v. Virginia, 606 S.E. 2d 518, (Va. Ct. App. 2004).
Sexual battery
  1. The time limit is within one year after the commission of the crime.
  2. If the victim was under 18 at the time of the offense, however, the time limit is within one year after the victim reaches majority, unless the alleged offender of such offense was an adult and more than three years older than the victim at the time of the offense, in which instance such prosecution must be commenced no later than five years after the victim reaches majority.
  1. Citation for the crime: Va. Code § 18.2-67.4.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Va. Code § 19.2-8.
Infected sexual battery
  1. There is no time limit for this crime when a felony.
  2. If the victim was under 18 at the time of the offense, and the offense is a misdemeanor, the time limit is within one year after the victim reaches majority, unless the alleged offender of such offense was an adult and more than three years older than the victim at the time of the offense, in which instance such prosecution must be commenced no later than five years after the victim reaches majority.
  1. Citation for the crime: Va. Code § 18.2-67.4:1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Va. Code § 19.2-8; Foster v. Virginia, 606 S.E. 2d 518, (Va. Ct. App. 2004).
Sexual abuse of a child under 15
  1. If the victim was under 18 at the time of the offense, however, the time limit is within one year after the victim reaches majority, unless the alleged offender of such offense was an adult and more than three years older than the victim at the time of the offense, in which instance such prosecution must be commenced no later than five years after the victim reaches majority.
  1. Citation for the crime: Va. Code § 18.267.4:2.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Va. Code § 19.2-8.
Attempted rape, forcible sodomy, object sexual penetration, aggravated sexual battery, and sexual battery

This crime is classified as follows:

  • Attempted rape, attempted forcible sodomy, attempted object sexual penetration, and attempted aggravated sexual battery are felonies.
  • Attempted sexual battery is a misdemeanor.

The time limit depends on the type of crime:

  1. Within one year after the commission of the offense when it is a misdemeanor.
  2. If the victim was under 18 at the time of the offense, however, the time limit is within one year after the victim reaches majority, unless the alleged offender of such offense was an adult and more than three years older than the victim at the time of the offense, in which instance such prosecution must be commenced no later than five years after the victim reaches majority.
  3. No time limit when it is a felony.
  1. Citation for the crime: Va. Code § 18.2-67.5.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Va. Code § 19.2-8; Foster v. Virginia, 606 S.E. 2d 518, (Va. Ct. App. 2004).
Adultery and fornication by persons forbidden to marry; incest

This crime is classified as follows:

  • Misdemeanor; or
  • Felony when the offender engages in sexual intercourse with the offender's child, grandchild, or parent.

The time limit depends on the type of crime:

  1. Within one year after the commission of the crime when it is a misdemeanor; or
  2. No time limit when it is a felony.
  1. Citation for the crime: Va. Code § 18.2-366
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Va. Code § 19.2-8; Foster v. Virginia, 606 S.E. 2d 518, (Va. Ct. App. 2004).
Taking indecent liberties with children; penalties
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Va. Code § 18.2-370.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Va. Code § 19.2-8; Foster v. Virginia, 606 S.E. 2d 518, (Va. Ct. App. 2004).
Taking indecent liberties with child by person in custodial or supervisory relationship
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Va. Code § 18.2-370.1.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Va. Code § 19.2-8; Foster v. Virginia, 606 S.E. 2d 518, (Va. Ct. App. 2004).
Penetration of mouth of child with lascivious intent
  1. If the victim was under 18 at the time of the offense, however, the time limit is within one year after the victim reaches majority, unless the alleged offender of such offense was an adult and more than three years older than the victim at the time of the offense, in which instance such prosecution must be commenced no later than five years after the victim reaches majority.
  1. Citation for the crime: Va. Code § 18.2-370.6.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Va. Code § 19.2-8.
Anything else I should know?
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations?






Washington What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Rape, first degree
  1. The time limit is within twenty years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If the victim is under the age of sixteen, there is no time limit.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.44.040
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.04.080.
Rape, second degree
  1. The time limit is within twenty years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If the victim is under the age of sixteen, there is no time limit.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.44.050.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.04.080.
Rape, third degree
  1. The time limit is within ten years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.44.060.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.04.080.
Rape of a child, first degree
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.44.073.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.04.080.
Rape of a child, second degree
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.44.076.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.04.080.
Rape of a child, third degree
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.44.079.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.04.080.
Child molestation, first degree
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.44.083.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.04.080.
Child molestation, third degree
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.44.089.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.04.080.
Sexual misconduct with a minor, first degree
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.44.093.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.04.080.
Sexual misconduct with a minor, second degree
  1. The time limit is within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.44.096.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.04.080.
Custodial sexual misconduct, first degree
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.44.160.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.04.080.
Custodial sexual misconduct, second degree
  1. The time limit is within three years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.44.170.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.04.080.
Incest
  1. The time limit is within ten years after commission of the offense; or
  2. If the offense is committed against a victim under the age of 18, it may be prosecuted up to the day the victim turns 30, whichever is later.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.64.020.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.04.080.
Anything else I should know?
Child molestation, second degree
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.44.086.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.04.080.
Indecent liberties
  1. The time limit is within twenty years after commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.44.100.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.04.080.
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?






West Virginia What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Sexual assault, first degree
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: W. Va. Code § 61-8B-3.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Carrico, 427 S.E. 2d 474, 477 (W. Va. 1993).
Sexual assault, second degree
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: W. Va. Code § 61-8B-4.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Carrico, 427 S.E. 2d 474, 477 (W. Va. 1993).
Sexual assault, third degree
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: W. Va. Code § 61-8B-5.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Carrico, 427 S.E. 2d 474, 477 (W. Va. 1993).
Sexual abuse, first degree
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: W. Va. Code § 61-8B-7.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Carrico, 427 S.E. 2d 474, 477 (W. Va. 1993).
Sexual abuse, second degree
  1. The time limit is within 1 year after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: W. Va. Code § 61-8B-8.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: W. Va. Code § 61-11-9.
Sexual abuse, third degree
  1. The time limit is within 1 year after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: W. Va. Code § 61-8B-9.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: W. Va. Code § 61-11-9.
Imposition of sexual acts on persons incarcerated or under supervision
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: W. Va. Code § 61-8B-10.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Carrico, 427 S.E. 2d 474, 477 (W. Va. 1993).
Sexual abuse by parent, guardian, custodian, or person in a position of trust to child
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: W. Va. Code § 61-8D-5.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Carrico, 427 S.E. 2d 474, 477 (W. Va. 1993).
Incest
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: W. Va. Code § 61-8-12.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: State v. Carrico, 427 S.E. 2d 474, 477 (W. Va. 1993).
Anything else I should know?
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?






Wisconsin What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Sexual exploitation by therapist
  1. The time limit is within 6 years after the commission of the offense.
  2. In computing the time limited by this section, the time during which alleged victim is unable to seek the issuance of a complaint under §968.02 due to the effects of the sexual contact or due to any threats, instructions or statements from the therapist shall not be included.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wis. Stat. § 940.22.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Wis. Stat. § 939.74.
Incest
  1. The time limit is within 6 years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wis. Stat. § 944.06.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Wis. Stat. § 939.74.
Sexual assault of a child
  1. There is no time limit for First Degree Sexual Assault.
  2. The time limit is before the victim reaches the age of 45 for Second Degree Sexual Assault.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wis. Stat. § 948.02.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Wis. Stat. § 939.74.
Engaging in repeated acts of sexual assault of the same child
  1. There is no time limit for violations of subsections 1(a) through 1(d) of this statute.
  2. The time limit is before the victim reaches the age of 45 for a violation of subsection 1(e) of this statute.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wis. Stat. § 948.025.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Wis. Stat. § 939.74.
Sexual exploitation of a child
  1. The time limit is before the victim reaches the age of 45.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wis. Stat. § 948.05.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Wis. Stat. § 939.74.
Incest with a child
  1. The time limit is before the victim reaches the age of 45.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wis. Stat. § 948.06.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Wis. Stat. § 939.74.
Sexual assault of a child placed in substitute care
  1. The time limit is before the victim reaches the age of 45.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wis. Stat. § 948.085.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Wis. Stat. § 939.74.
Sexual intercourse with a child 16 or over
  1. The time limit is within 3 years after the commission of the offense.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wis. Stat. § 948.09.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Wis. Stat. § 939.74.
Sexual assault of a child by a school staff person or a person who works or volunteers with children
  1. The time limit is before the victim reaches the age of 45.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wis. Stat. § 948.095.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Wis. Stat. § 939.74.
Sexual Assault

The time limit depends on the type of crime:

  1. There is no time limit for Sexual Assault in the First Degree;
  2. Within 10 years after the commission of the offense for Sexual Assault in the Second Degree or Third Degree; or
  3. Within 3 years after the commission of the offense for Sexual Assault in the Fourth Degree.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wis. Stat. § 940.225.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Wis. Stat. § 939.74.
Anything else I should know?
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?






Wyoming What is the statute of limitations? Statutory Citation(s):
Sexual assault, first degree
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wyo. Stat. § 6-2-302.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Remmick v. State, 275 P. 3d 467, 470 (Wyo. 2012).
Sexual assault, second degree
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wyo. Stat. § 6-2-303.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Remmick v. State, 275 P. 3d 467, 470 (Wyo. 2012).
Sexual assault, third degree
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wyo. Stat. § 6-2-304.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Remmick v. State, 275 P. 3d 467, 470 (Wyo. 2012).
Sexual battery
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wyo. Stat. § 6-2-313.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Remmick v. State, 275 P. 3d 467, 470 (Wyo. 2012).
Sexual abuse of a minor, first degree
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wyo. Stat. § 6-2-314.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Remmick v. State, 275 P. 3d 467, 470 (Wyo. 2012).
Sexual abuse of a minor, second degree
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wyo. Stat. § 6-2-315.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Remmick v. State, 275 P. 3d 467, 470 (Wyo. 2012).
Sexual abuse of a minor, third degree
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wyo. Stat. § 6-2-316.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Remmick v. State, 275 P. 3d 467, 470 (Wyo. 2012).
Sexual abuse of a minor, fourth degree
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wyo. Stat. § 6-2-317.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Remmick v. State, 275 P. 3d 467, 470 (Wyo. 2012).
Incest
  1. There is no time limit for this crime.
  1. Citation for the crime: Wyo. Stat. § 6-4-402.
  2. Citation for the statute of limitations: Remmick v. State, 275 P. 3d 467, 470 (Wyo. 2012).
Anything else I should know?
Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations laws?








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