Rolando Cantu Attorney - Footer Logo
Rolando Cantu is the founding attorney of the Law Office of Rolando D. Cantu. He is committed to providing aggressive and high level legal representation—successfully defending clients charged with state and federal criminal offenses. He works on every case as a priority with personal attention, while prioritizing their needs. 

Contact Info

515 Pecan Blvd. McAllen,

Texas, United States 78501
Tel.  +1 956-267-9898 

Federal Sex Crimes & Types of Charges

Nov 26, 2022

Federal Sex Crimes & Types of Charges

Depending on the severity of the crime, sex crimes can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies. A misdemeanor is a lesser offense that is punishable by a fine or up to one year in jail, while a felony is a more serious offense that is punishable by a fine or imprisonment for more than one year. The following are some of the most common types of sex crimes and the possible penalties associated with each.

List of Federal Sex Crimes

Sex crimes are usually prosecuted by the federal government, which has more resources and experience with these types of cases than state or local governments. Federal prosecutors have a wide range of charges to choose from, depending on the circumstances of the case. Some of the most common federal sex crimes include:


  1. Trafficking in persons for sexual purposes
  2. Sexual exploitation of children
  3. Production, distribution, and possession of child pornography
  4. Interstate transportation of minors for sexual purposes
  5. Enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity


While these are the most common sex crime offenses, there are many other types of sex crimes that can be prosecuted at the federal level. Here we list some of the most common federal sexual crimes in the United States.

Sexual Assault

Sexual assault is any type of sexual contact that occurs without the consent of both parties. This can include rape, forcible sodomy, child molestation, and sexual abuse. Sexual assault is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Sexual assault is any type of sexual contact or behavior that occurs without the victim's consent. Charges for sexual assault can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the severity of the offense.

Aggravated sexual abuse

This is a variant of the previous one. However, as we mentioned our blog: Accused of Sexual Assault in Texas? Here's What to Expect, this refers to any non-consensual sexual act that includes any of these aggravating factors:


  • use or exhibition of a deadly weapon during the crime
  • use or exhibition of force that results in serious bodily injury to the victim
  • The victim is younger than 14 years old (child sexual abuse)
  • The offender is HIV positive and knew it at the time of the crime
  • The offender is a public servant, such as a police officer, teacher, or doctor
  • The victim is elderly or disabled
  • The offender committed the crime during a burglary, kidnapping, or robbery

Human trafficking

Trafficking another person through the use of force, fraud, or coercion for the purpose of forced labor or sexual exploitation is a crime. Although there are many ways and reasons for human traffic to take place, it can also be the case that this is used for sexual purposes, such as slavery, prostitution, etc.

Statutory Rape

Statutory rape is defined as sexual intercourse with someone who is under the age of consent (18 in most states). Obviously, this changes depending on the state where you live. This can differ also if other crimes are involved, such as incest or a prior registration in the sex offender registration.

Child Molestation

Child molestation is any sexual contact or behavior between an adult and a child under the age of 18. This can include anything from fondling to rape. Charges for child molestation are always felonies and can be punished by 20 up to 99 years in prison.

Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse involves any type of sexual contact between two people in which one person is forced, coerced, or otherwise unable to give consent. This can include non-consensual sexual contact with someone who is incapacitated due to alcohol or drugs, as well as sexual contact with someone who is under the age of 18. Sexual abuse is punishable by up to 10 years in prison.

Indecent exposure and public lewdness

Indecent exposure occurs when someone exposes their genitals in public without permission from the other person(s) present. This crime is typically charged as a misdemeanor, but can be charged as a felony if the offender has prior convictions. The possible penalties for this crime range from probation to up to 10 years in prison.

Voyeurism

Voyeurism occurs when someone secretly watches another person undressing or engaging in sexual activity without their consent. This crime is typically charged as a misdemeanor, but can be charged as a felony if the offender has prior convictions. The possible penalties for this crime range from probation up to six months imprisonment. This can be aggravated in case other crimes are related.

Distribution of Child Pornography

Distribution of child pornography occurs when someone knowingly distributes images or videos of child sexual abuse without the victim’s consent (or data that allows such images or videos to be accessed).

Production or Possession of Child Pornography

Possession of child pornography occurs when someone knowingly possesses images or videos of child sexual abuse without the victim’s consent (or data that allows such images or videos to be accessed). It is illegal to produce, possess, or distribute images or videos of children engaged in sexual activity. This includes material that is downloaded from the internet as well as material that is produced by the offender. Possessing child pornography is usually charged as a felony, while distributing it is usually charged as a more serious felony. This crime is punishable by up to 10 years in prison.

Enticing a Child

Enticing a child is when an adult attempts to lure a child into a meeting with them with the intention of engaging in sexual activity. This is often done through online communication, such as texting or emailing. Charges for enticing a child can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the severity of the offense.

Federal sex crimes penalties

Federal crimes of this kind are considered a felony with severe penalties. Rape is a very serious felony in the United States. Depending on the provisions of each state's sentencing statute or guidelines, it can range from one year to even life in prison. Some states require a minimum prison sentence or require the court to impose a prison sentence without probation or early parole. In other states, the judge may have some discretion on the length of the sentence and whether to allow the defendant to serve any portion of the sentence on probation rather than in prison.

According to the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, crimes that involve sexual abuse of a minor are punished more severely than other types of sex offenses. Depending on the circumstances and the severity of the crime, the judge may impose a minimum sentence of five or ten years in prison with no chance of parole. In some cases, the punishment can include up to life in prison. In cases involving multiple victims, the sentences may be even harsher.


The penalties for federal sex crimes can include fines, probation, or even death in some cases. The mandatory minimum sentence for certain types of sex offenses can be as high as life in prison. In some cases, the judge may also require the offender to be incarcerated in a federal prison, even if state laws allow the offender to serve their sentence in a state or local prison. It is important to note that each crime carries its own set of penalties and legal consequences, so it is important to consult with an
experienced criminal defense attorney if you have been accused of a sex crime.

Sex offender registry

A federal sex crime can be severe and may include a lengthy prison sentence and hefty fines. But also, there are other punishments such as the loss of certain rights and privileges, including the right to vote or the right to carry a firearm. Additionally, federal sex offenders are required by federal court to register with the National Sex Offender Registration.


The sex offender registry is available to the public and provides information about registered sex offenders in the United States. It is important to note that these penalties vary from state to state and can be more severe depending on the severity of the crime.

Sex Offender Treatment

In some cases, a judge may require or recommend sex offender treatment. This type of treatment is often aimed at helping the offender better understand how their behavior affects others and how they can better control their impulses. Treatment typically includes education, counseling, and relapse prevention. It is important to note that treatment is not a substitute for punishment, but rather an additional tool to help the offender change their behavior. Additionally, failure to complete treatment may result in further criminal penalties.

In conclusion, sex crimes are serious offenses and come with severe punishments. It is important to contact an experienced sex crimes attorney if you are facing criminal charges for sexual exploitation or any other sex crime. Your lawyer can help you understand the laws in place and how they apply to your case. They can also provide guidance on your best legal options.

Conclusion

If you've been charged with any type of sex crime, it's important to seek legal assistance as soon as possible. Depending on the nature of your charges, you could be facing significant jail time and will need all the help you can get.


At the Law Office of Rolando Cantu, we understand the sensitivity of these charges, and we are committed to protecting your rights and fighting for a favorable outcome. Our experienced attorneys have successfully represented individuals facing a variety of sex crimes in Texas courts, so we know what it takes to build a strong defense.


Our experienced attorney will be able to review your case and determine what defenses may be available to you.

Should I Pay a Civil Demand Letter for Shoplifting?
25 Apr, 2024
Unsure about whether to pay a civil demand letter after being charged with shoplifting? Our blog post provides helpful tips and legal advice on handling this situation. Don't make any decisions without consulting a professional first!
Possession with Intent to Distribute: First Offense
20 Apr, 2024
Learn about the legal definition of possession with intent to distribute, its implications on public safety, and the necessary steps for a successful defense in a first-offense case.
What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
06 Apr, 2024
What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
Types of Sex Crimes
06 Apr, 2024
Learn about the various forms and types of sex crimes, their impact on victims, and why it's important to be informed about them in today's society.
29 Mar, 2024
Find out what can happen if you fail a court-ordered drug test while out on bond, including the potential consequences and impact on your legal situation. Learn how to navigate this complex process and ensure compliance with court orders to avoid further complications.
Intoxication Manslaughter Sentence in Texas
29 Mar, 2024
Learn about the grave consequences of being charged with intoxication manslaughter in Texas and how understanding the state's laws can help navigate this complex legal process.
How Often Are Felony Charges Dropped?
08 Mar, 2024
Learn about the reality of felony charges and how often they are dropped in the legal system. Find out what factors can affect the outcome and what this means for your future.
Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon - Texas
08 Mar, 2024
Learn about the serious crime of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon in Texas and how it differs from simple assault. Find out the definition, penalties, and distinctions to protect yourself legally.
01 Mar, 2024
Learn about the legal definition of a deadly weapon and how it applies beyond just guns and knives. Understand the serious consequences of using any object with intent to cause death or harm in Texas.
Controlled Substance - Texas
01 Mar, 2024
Interested in learning more about the regulations surrounding controlled substances in Texas? Check out our comprehensive guide to the state's laws and how they align with federal legislation.
More Posts
Share by: