Sexual offences explained
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The law, as it affects both men and women.
Rape
Under the Sexual Offences Act 2003, it is an offence for any male to penetrate the vagina, anus or mouth of a female or male without their consent. Maximum sentence is imprisonment for life.
Assault by penetration
The Act makes it an offence for any male or female to penetrate the vagina or anus of another person without their consent. The offence is committed where the penetration is by a part of the body (for example, a finger) or anything else (for example, a bottle) for sexual intent.
Sexual Assault
It's an offence for any male or female to intentionally touch another person sexually without his or her consent. Conviction can lead to imprisonment.
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