Florida law broadly defines sex crimes as a range of offenses involving unlawful or non-consensual sexual activity, abuse, or exploitation. These crimes are classified from misdemeanors to serious felonies, including capital felonies, with penalties such as significant prison time, heavy fines, and mandatory sex offender registration. 

Common Sex Crimes in Florida

Sex crimes in Florida fall into two general categories: forcible (involving force or threats) and non-forcible (involving a victim legally incapable of consent, such as a minor). Specific offenses include: 

• Sexual Battery: Florida's legal term for rape or sexual assault. It involves non-consensual oral, anal, or vaginal penetration.

• Lewd or Lascivious Conduct/Molestation: Inappropriate acts or touching with, or in front of, a minor under the age of 16.

• Unlawful Sexual Activity with a Minor (Statutory Rape): Sexual activity where, even if the minor claimed consent, state law considers them legally incapable of giving it.

• Internet Sex Crimes: Offenses such as online solicitation of a minor, possession or distribution of child pornography, and sexually explicit communication involving minors.