As reported in the November 7, 2014 edition of the Providence Journal, an Attleboro man was sentenced to five (5) years imprisonment in a child molestation case. The man was a minister and the principal of a church school. He molested a student at the school.
There are two (2) types of child molestation under Rhode Island law, first degree child molestation and second degree molestation. It appears that the man committed second degree child molestation. Pursuant to Rhode Island General Laws 11-37-8.1, first degree child molestation is defined as a person is guilty of first degree child molestation sexual assault if he or she engages in sexual penetration with a person fourteen (14) years of age or under. Second degree child molestation is defined as a person is guilty of a second degree child molestation sexual assault if he or she engages in sexual contact with another person fourteen (14) years of age or under.
The penalties if convicted of first degree child molestation is imprisonment for a period of not less than twenty-five (25) years and may be imprisoned for life. The penalties if convicted of second degree child molestation is imprisonment for not less than six (6) years nor more than thirty (30) years. For both charges sex offender registration, sex offender counseling and a no-contact order with the victim would also be imposed.
If you or a family member has been charged with child molestation, sexual assault or other sex crimes, please allow Attorney Robert H. Humphrey's reputation, experience and skill to successfully guide you through the legal process. Please contact Attorney Robert H. Humphrey, Esq., at 401-816-5862 or e-mail him at rhh@rhumphreylaw.com.