§ 3–602
Statutes in effect as of October 1, 2026.
Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law § 3-602 (2026)
Title 3. Other Crimes Against the Person
Subtitle 6. Abuse and Other Offensive Conduct
§ 3–602LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2)
“Family member” has the meaning stated in § 3–601 of this subtitle.
(3)
“Household member” has the meaning stated in § 3–601 of this subtitle.
(4)
(i)
“Sexual abuse” means an act that involves sexual molestation or exploitation of a minor, whether physical injuries are sustained or not.
(ii)
“Sexual abuse” includes:
(1)
incest;
(2)
rape;
(3)
sexual offense in any degree; and
(4)
any other sexual conduct that is a crime.
(b)
(1)
A parent or other person who has permanent or temporary care or custody or responsibility for the supervision of a minor may not cause sexual abuse to the minor.
(2)
A household member or family member may not cause sexual abuse to a minor.
(c)
A person who violates this section is guilty of a felony and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 25 years.
(d)
A sentence imposed under this section may be separate from and consecutive to or concurrent with a sentence for:
(1)
any crime based on the act establishing the violation of this section; or
(2)
a violation of § 3-601 of this subtitle involving an act of abuse separate from sexual abuse under this section.