Asked in Criminal Law and Sexual Harassment for New York

Q: What are the statue of limitations for sexual abuse of a minor? What can I do if the statue has passed?

I was sexually assaulted by a friend's dad 8 years ago and this year found out he sexually abused another of her friends. He did get into legal trouble for touching a minor at work but it is not know that he assaulted other children as well. I was 15 at the time and this friend was pf a similar age. He sent explicit photos of himself to her and coerced sexual favors from her. From myself he watched me shower while he exposed himself to me and then pulled a towel away from me to see my breast. We do not have proof but we do not want him to harm any more girls or have the opportunity to prey on them at all. What options do we have if any?

1 Lawyer Answer
Andrew S. Tabashneck
Andrew S. Tabashneck
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Williamsville, NY
  • Licensed in New York

A: I am very sorry to hear about this and very much admire your courage in discussing this matter.

For sexual offenses, the statute of limitations is five years after the last incident and begins to run when you turned 18 years of age. There are also possible exceptions where the statute of limitations may be extended under certain circumstances. Even if this incident occurred a long time ago, I would suggest attempting to go police because it's entirely possible that an exception applies. It's also possible that police could uncover additional wrongdoing.

I wish you the best of luck.

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