Third Degree/Fourth Degree Sexual Abuse
While the 1st and 2nd degree offenses address a sexual act (penetration, for example), sexual abuse of the 3rd and 4th degrees address sexual contact (for example, inappropriate touching). The difference between the 3rd and 4th degree offenses is then the same as the difference between the 1st and 2nd degrees. That is, 3rd degree involves actual force, threats putting the person in fear of death, bodily injury or kidnapping, or rendering the person unconscious. The 4th degree offense involves reasonable fear of any type of injury or a victim who is already unconscious.
The penalty for someone convicted of 3rd degree sexual abuse is a maximum fine of $100,000 and up to 10 years imprisonment. The penalty for 4th degree sexual abuse is a maximum fine of $50,000 and a maximum sentence of 5 years. D.C. Criminal Code 22-3004; D.C. Criminal Code 22-3005.