Enforcing Statutory Rape Laws

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses the growing problem of teenage pregnancies in America, which, can, in some part, be attributed to sexual relationships between minor females and adult men. The writer of this paper examines the argument, which states that enforcing these rape laws will result in a reduction of teenage pregnancy rates. The writer contends that if teen pregnancy rates are reduced, the existing burden on the welfare system will be substantially relieved as a result. This paper explores the current statutory rape laws, in which relations between adults and minors are referred to as rape, sexual abuse and unlawful sexual conduct. The seriousness of the charges vary, based on the age of the victim, or the span of years between the victim and the perpetrator. This paper explores the strategies of various states, such as Delaware and California, that are leveling civil penalties against the perpetrators of crimes against minors.

From the Paper:

"While all states currently have laws forbidding sexual activity between adults and minors, the variation in laws and application are enormous. The relations between adults and minors are referred to as rape, sexual abuse, unlawful sexual conduct and other epithets. The seriousness of the charge can vary, based on the age of the victim, or the span of years between the victim and the perpetrator. It should also be noted that most of these laws are not gender neutral and are usually applied solely to young women and girls. Even so, the laws are notoriously difficult to prosecute. The women involved are often, understandably, unwilling to give testimony against their partner. Several states are looking to recoup the cost of the teenaged pregnancy to the social service system by leveling civil penalties against the perpetrator."

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