molestation

Definition

The act of sexually abusing or inappropriately touching another person, typically a child, as a form of violent criminal conduct.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'molestare', meaning to disturb, annoy, or harass. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the term evolved in legal and social contexts to specifically denote criminal sexual assault.

In the news

In the article, the term is used as an example of a 'super strike' crime. Prosecutors reference it to illustrate the severe offenses that the current law struggle to adequately address when determining if a defendant qualifies for mental health diversion.

District attorneys, lawmakers celebrate changes to mental health diversion law

Sacramento Bee

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