As reported in the January 25, 2016 edition of the Providence Journal, a Cumberland man has been indicted by the grand jury on charges of first and second degree child molestation. The man, who is 84 years old, is accused of committing these crimes in the mid-1980s. The man is scheduled to be arraigned in February.
Pursuant to Rhode Island General Laws 11-37-8.1, first degree child molestation is defined as 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. Whereas, 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.
Both are felony charges. If convicted of first degree child molestation the penalties include imprisonment for a period of not less than twenty-five (25) years and may be imprisoned for life. The penalties for second degree child molestation include imprisonment for not less than six (6) years nor more than thirty (30) years. Sex offender registration and sex offender counseling would also be required as well as a no-contact order with the victim(s).
If you or a family member have been charged with child molestation, sexual assault or other sex crimes, please contact Attorney Robert H. Humphrey at 401-816-5862 or e-mail him at rhh@rhumphreylaw.com