Glossary of Sex Crime Terms West Virginia

harassment- Illegal collection techniques - such as threats, obscene or profane language, harassing phone calls, and publishing lists of "deadbeats".

indecent exposure- The act of being naked in front of another in a public place. When the charge is combined with a sex charge, i.e., to obtain sexual gratification from the act of exposure, the penalties can be severe.

obscene- A term to describe content which is usually sexual in nature and appeals to people's "prurient interest," with no legitimate artistic, literary or scientific purpose. A Supreme Court Justice once said about obscenity: "I can't define it, but I know it when I see it."

overt act- An intentional physical act made by a perpetrator in furtherance of a crime.

panderer- One who solicits for a prostitute.

pedophilia- A sexual obsession for children. Many believe most pedophilia is a mental illness related to obsessive-compulsive disorder. Many others believe it is the worst form of criminal deviance and should carry the most severe penalties possible. Everyone agrees that the harm done to children who are molested is massive and life-shattering.

peeping tom- Traditionally limited to offenders who peek into windows and through restroom walls for sexual gratification. The term comes from the legendary story of a man named Tom who peeked when Lady Godiva rode her horse naked through the streets.

pimp- A person who sells the sexual services of another for profit.

pornography- The visual and auditory display of sexual activity intended solely to excite sexually with no redeeming social or artistic value. The publication, sale and distribution of "hard core" child pornography can be a felony.

prostitute- One who receives payment in exchange for sex.

dangerous weapon- Any weapon which has the actual potential of causing great bodily harm to another.

sex crimes lawyer- Criminal defense lawyers whose practice focuses on sex crimes including rape, sexual assault and child molestation.

For more information on state and federal criminal penelties for sexual crimes such as rape, assault, child molestation visit GotTrouble.com