South Carolina § 16-3-654 - Criminal sexual conduct in the third degree.
Full text of South Carolina South Carolina Code of Laws § 16-3-654 — Criminal sexual conduct in the third degree., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 16-3-654. Criminal sexual conduct in the third degree.
(1) A person is guilty of criminal sexual conduct in the third degree if the actor engages in sexual battery with the victim and if any one or more of the following circumstances are proven:
(a) The actor uses force or coercion to accomplish the sexual battery in the absence of aggravating circumstances.
(b) The actor knows or has reason to know that the victim is mentally defective, mentally incapacitated, or physically helpless and aggravated force or aggravated coercion was not used to accomplish sexual battery.
(2) Criminal sexual conduct in the third degree is a felony punishable by imprisonment for not more than ten years, according to the discretion of the court.
HISTORY: 1977 Act No. 157 SECTION 4.
Source: official South Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina § 16-3-654
What does South Carolina Code of Laws § 16-3-654 cover?
Section 16-3-654 ("Criminal sexual conduct in the third degree.") is part of the South Carolina Code of Laws, the codified statutory law of South Carolina. 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 South Carolina § 16-3-654?
A common citation format is "South Carolina Code of Laws § 16-3-654" (South Carolina). 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 South Carolina law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the South Carolina official source linked on this page or consult a licensed South Carolina attorney.
How does South Carolina § 16-3-654 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in South Carolina 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 South Carolina.