In most sex related crimes, the perpetrator and the victim are two separate entities.  There was one strange case where a person became both the victim and the sex offender.  I asked myself “How could that be?” the first time I read about that case.  Before I tell you exactly how the conviction came about, first let’s talk about what is the definition of a sex offender and a victim.

Each state in the United States has varying definition on what they consider a sex offender is to differentiate between sex predators.  Although there are differences, it’s not that notable and it is generally the same thing.  In Georgia, a sex offender is someone that has been convicted of a crime against a minor and a sex predator is considered to be the more violent type.  Usually, the victim is a young individual; a minor and the perpetrator is usually an adult.  Notice my use of the word “usually” that should give you a clue how a person was charged as a sex offender and also turned out to be a victim.

Anyway, once a person has been charged and convicted as a sex offender he or she will need to register.  Once registered, the name will be included on a statewide list of sex offenders that is available for public.

Right, now let’s get on with the story. Back in December 2006, a 13 year old girl became both a victim and a sex offender at the same time.  It all happened when she had sex with her 12 year old boyfriend, which would also make him both a sex offender and a victim as well.  See, even if the sex is consensual, if a minor is involved it counts as statutory rape and is considered a sexual felony. For teenagers who are 14 to 15, their offense can be counted only as a misdemeanor if they have sex with someone that is 4 years ahead or behind them. However, if the minor is 12 to 13 years old, there are no exceptions.

I guess you can never really tell when a sex offense will be committed, much less prevent a potential one from happening when it comes to what seems like “harmless” teenagers, because it’s normal for teenagers to mingle with fellow teens.  Parents can only teach their children moral ethics and hope for the best, but when it comes to protecting children and teens from adult sex offenders, now that’s a different story.

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