Suburban Law Enforcement Academy (SLEA) BA State Certification Practice Exam

Criminal sexual assault is classified as which type of felony?

1. Misdemeanor

2. Class X felony

3. Class A felony

4. Class 1 felony

The correct answer is: Class X felony

Criminal sexual assault is classified as a Class X felony in many jurisdictions. This classification indicates the seriousness of the crime and the potential penalties associated with a conviction. Class X felonies typically carry severe consequences, including significant prison sentences, which reflect the gravity of the offense, especially in relation to the harm caused to the victim. In many states, a Class X felony status may require mandatory minimum sentences, and the conviction can have long-lasting implications for the offender, including potential registration as a sex offender. The other classifications mentioned, while serious, do not accurately reflect the classification that criminal sexual assault typically falls under. Misdemeanors, for example, are generally less serious offenses with lighter penalties, whereas Class A and Class 1 felonies are also serious but may not encompass the full severity associated with certain types of sexual assault offenses. Hence, Class X is the appropriate classification for this type of felony.