It is common for prosecutors to compound crimes against a person. This occurs because there are often multiple crimes associated with one situation.
A good example is when it comes to sex crimes, especially against children. A person may face a rape charge initially, and then the prosecutor may add on charges for another crime, such as continuing course of conduct with a child.
Definition of continuing course of conduct
Continuing course of conduct with a child occurs when a person commits certain sexual crimes against someone who is under the age of 14. It requires committing the acts three or more times over 90 or more days. The associated crimes include rape and other violent sexual offenses.
Prosecution of this charge
It is essential for the prosecutor to show that at least three acts occurred. However, the prosecution does not have to provide additional details. The court will only consider that the acts occurred at least three times within the required time period. Because of this, it is tricky to defend against the charge.
Potential punishments
The charge is a felony count. It comes with a potential sentence of up to 30 years in prison. The judge can run this time concurrently with other sentences or consecutive, so it is possible for this charge to add a full 30 years to any existing sentence. However, a person can only face this charge once per victim regardless of the time period or the number of acts occurring.
Continuing course of conduct with a child is a tricky charge to face. It can also come with a long prison sentence.