In terms of sexual crimes, what does "aggravated" imply?

The term "aggravated" in the context of sexual crimes indicates a heightened severity or additional factors that elevate the seriousness of the offense. When an aggravated sexual crime causes serious bodily injury, it not only reflects the act itself but also suggests that the victim suffered significant harm as a result. This distinction is crucial because it often leads to harsher legal penalties and reflects the gravity of the offense in comparison to less severe incidents.

While involving a deadly weapon, a minor, or any form of non-consensual activity are all serious considerations in sexual crimes, the specific implication of "aggravated" is most accurately captured by the fact that it results in serious bodily injury. This understanding helps underline the legal framework surrounding sexual offenses, where the degree of harm to the victim is a critical factor in determining the classification and consequences of the crime.