Understanding Texas Child Abuse Laws

Summary

In Texas, inappropriate touching, unwanted kissing, and physical harm to a child can be criminal offenses. Potential charges include indecency with a child, assault, sexual assault, child endangerment, and child abuse. Documenting incidents and seeking legal aid is crucial for building a case. Consider reaching out to local support services for guidance and assistance.

Full Conversation

I was wondering if some incidents count as crimes?
That’s a good question, Suhani. Generally, an incident may be considered a crime if it involves a violation of law. Could you provide a specific example of the incident you’re concerned about? This will help in giving you more accurate information.
My dad has been touching me (not on my privates) for years, even if I yell at him or physically hurt him to stop him from touching me. When I was twelve, mom got upset, thinking his behavior was creepy. While she confronted him, I went to use the bathroom. He walked in, bent down for a second, and peeked at me. He said he was “just checking to see if I was done.” Then, some time later, he sandwiched me against a wall and kissed me heavily on the lips. I think I was around thirteen or fourteen.
My dad has been touching me (not on my privates) for years, even if I yell at him or physically hurt him to stop him from touching me.
Suhani, I'm really sorry to hear about your situation. Based on what you've described, this behavior could be considered abusive and potentially criminal. It may fall under harassment, assault, or other unlawful conduct depending on your location.
Could you please tell me which state or country you are in? This will help provide more specific legal information.
I’m in Texas
Suhani, I'm really sorry to hear about what you're going through. In Texas, the behavior you've described could potentially be classified as criminal under several laws, including:
- Indecency with a Child (Texas Penal Code § *.*): This law covers inappropriate touching and could apply even if it’s not on private parts.
- Assault (Texas Penal Code § *.*): Unwanted physical contact can be considered assault.
- Sexual Assault (Texas Penal Code § *.*): This includes unwanted kissing or other sexual contact.
You may want to contact a legal professional or counselor to discuss your situation further.
Would you like information on how to reach local legal aid or support services?
Would it be sexual even if he doesn’t touch my privates?
Yes, it can still be considered sexual abuse even if he doesn’t touch your privates. The behavior you described involves inappropriate touching, unwanted kissing, and intrusive actions, which can be considered sexual abuse under Texas law.
Would you like information on how to reach local legal aid or support services?
Thank you
Suhani, I'm really sorry to hear about what you're going through. Yes, even if your dad did not touch your private parts, his actions can still be considered sexual abuse under Texas law. It's important to reach out for help.
Would you like information on local legal aid or support services in Texas?
He also kicked me out of a guesthouse at night in an uninhabited area with undomesticated dogs. I was seven, and we were in a different country in which I did not speak the local language.
Suhani, I'm really sorry to hear about your experiences. The behavior you've described could be classified as abusive and potentially criminal. Here are some steps you can take:
- Contact Local Authorities: Report the incidents to the police.
- Seek Legal Aid: Consider reaching out to a legal professional for advice.
- Support Services: Look for local support services for victims of abuse.
Would you like information on local legal aid or support services in Texas?
If they were criminal, what type of charge would it be?
Suhani, based on the incidents you've described, your father's actions could potentially lead to several criminal charges in Texas:
- Indecency with a Child (Texas Penal Code § *.*): Inappropriate touching or actions towards a minor.
- Assault (Texas Penal Code § *.*): Unwanted physical contact.
- Sexual Assault (Texas Penal Code § *.*): Unwanted kissing or other sexual contact.
- Child Endangerment (Texas Penal Code § *.*): Placing a child in a dangerous situation, like leaving you in an unsafe area.
Would you like information on how to reach local legal aid or support services?
Also, when I was five, he spanked me with a comb so hard you could see the shape of the comb teeth in the swelling
Suhani, the incident you described could also be classified as child abuse under Texas law. Here are some pertinent charges:
- Child Abuse (Texas Family Code § *.*): This includes physical harm, such as spanking that leaves visible marks.
- Assault (Texas Penal Code § *.*): Physical injury inflicted on a child.
Would you like information on how to reach local legal aid or support services in Texas?
I can’t build a case, as I don’t have evidence against him
Suhani, it's understandable to feel overwhelmed. Lack of physical evidence can complicate things, but it's not impossible to build a case. Testimonies, your accounts, and any previous reports can be crucial.
Would you like guidance on how to document incidents or contact local support services?
Yes, please.
Suhani, here are some tips on how to document incidents and reach out for help:
- Document Incidents: Write down each incident in detail with dates, times, and any witnesses.
- Seek Legal Advice: Contact local legal aid services for guidance.
- Support Services: Consider reaching out to support organizations for victims of abuse.
Would you like the contact information for local legal aid or support services in Texas?
Thank you. I believe I can find further resources on my own.
Suhani's situation is indeed severe and could potentially lead to multiple criminal charges. Here are some key points to remember:
- Indecency with a Child (Texas Penal Code § *.*)
- Assault (Texas Penal Code § *.*)
- Sexual Assault (Texas Penal Code § *.*)
- Child Endangerment (Texas Penal Code § *.*)
- Child Abuse (Texas Family Code § *.*)
It's important to document all incidents thoroughly and reach out to local legal aid or support services for personalized advice and assistance. If you need any further guidance, please don't hesitate to ask.