Arkansas § 5-14-126 - Sexual assault in the third degree.
Full text of Arkansas Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated § 5-14-126 — Sexual assault in the third degree., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5-14-126. Sexual assault in the third degree.
A person commits sexual assault in the third degree if the person: Engages in sexual intercourse or deviate sexual activity with another person who is not the actor's spouse, and the actor is: Employed with the Division of Correction, Division of Community Correction, Department of Human Services, or any city or county jail, the victim is in the custody of the Division of Correction, Division of Community Correction, Department of Human Services, or any city or county jail, and the actor is in a position of trust or authority over the victim and uses the position of trust or authority to engage in sexual intercourse or deviate sexual activity; Employed by or contracted with the Division of Community Correction, a local law enforcement agency, a court, or a local government and the actor is supervising the person while the person is on probation or parole or for any other court-ordered reason; Employed or contracted with or otherwise providing services, supplies, or supervision to an agency maintaining custody of inmates, detainees, or juveniles, the victim is in the custody of the Division of Correction, Division of Community Correction, Department of Human Services, or any city or county jail, and the actor is in a position of trust or authority over the victim and uses the position of trust or authority to engage in sexual intercourse or deviate sexual activity; or A mandated reporter under § 12-18-402(b) or a member of the clergy and is in a position of trust or authority over the victim and uses the position of trust or authority to engage in sexual intercourse or deviate sexual activity; or Being a minor, engages in sexual intercourse or deviate sexual activity with another person who is: Less than fourteen (14) years of age; and Not the person's spouse. It is an affirmative defense under this subdivision (a)(2) that the actor was not more than three (3) years older than the victim. It is no defense to a prosecution under this section that the victim consented to the conduct. Sexual assault in the third degree is a Class C felony.
Source: official Arkansas text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Arkansas § 5-14-126
What does Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated § 5-14-126 cover?
Section 5-14-126 ("Sexual assault in the third degree.") is part of the Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated, the codified statutory law of Arkansas. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Arkansas § 5-14-126?
A common citation format is "Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated § 5-14-126" (Arkansas). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Arkansas law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Arkansas official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Arkansas attorney.
How does Arkansas § 5-14-126 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Arkansas can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Arkansas.