The new Article 120, UCMJ (Rape, sexual assault, and other sexual misconduct) took effect for offenses occurring on and after October 1, 2007. These new changes created 36 offenses that replaced offenses under the former Article 120 and others under Article 134.
Those new Article 120 offenses include:
- Indecent assault
- Indecent acts or liberties with a child
- Indecent exposure
- Indecent acts with another
That UCMJ change also amended some Article 134 offenses.
- Indecent language communicated to another
- Pandering (having someone commit an act of prostitution) is still an offense under Article 134 but the elements have been somewhat modified.
- There is a new Article 120 offense when the pandering is “compelled.”
The changes also permit charging an accused when the accused personally did not engage in the sexual act, sexual contact, indecent conduct, or lewd act, but instead caused another to do so.
If you are suspected of committing any sexual offense, contact Mr. Sigmon immediately! Your future is at risk as these offenses carry significant criminal penalties and early action by Mr. Sigmon may be crucial for your defense.