What are the elements of taking indecent liberties with a child?

There are many offenses that are considered sex crimes. One of these offenses is taking indecent liberties with children. If you are charged with such an offense, it’s important to begin putting your defense together. This and other similar crimes carry stiff penalties, but there are other issues that may arise. For example, you may find your reputation is damaged and your friends and family are not supporting you. The media may be involved and reporting what happens with your case. In some cases, you may feel as though you have been found guilty in the court of public opinion even though you are supposed to be presumed innocent until — and only if — you are found guilty by a court of law.

The elements of taking indecent liberties with a child are:

— The person charged is 16 years old or older and must be five years older than the alleged victim and either:

— Willfully attempts or takes any improper, immoral or indecent liberties with a child of either gender who is under 16 years of age for the purpose of gratifying sexual desire or arousing sexual desire; or

— Willfully attempts or commits any lascivious or lewd act with any part of an alleged victim’s body who is under 16 years old.

Those found guilty of taking indecent liberties with a child will face the penalties of a Class F felony. In North Carolina, the possible prison sentence is from 10 to 41 months. Understanding what you are facing in terms of possible penalties is important and is why you should begin as soon as possible on helping an attorney develop your defense strategy.

Source: ncleg.net, “§ 14-202.1. Taking indecent liberties with children,” accessed April. 30, 2015