At what age must a child be for the crime of child molestation to be applicable?

In Arizona, the crime of child molestation applies specifically to individuals who are under the age of 15. This legal definition is important because it establishes a clear boundary for the age at which a child is considered a victim for the purposes of this crime.

The law recognizes that children under the age of 15 are particularly vulnerable and requires additional protections against sexual offenses. This age threshold emphasizes the seriousness with which the state views offenses committed against minors, aiming to provide legal recourse and safeguards for younger children who may be exploited or harmed.

While it may seem reasonable to consider other age limits, such as 10 or 12, the distinction for this specific offense reinforces the priority placed on preventing abuse of children in this age group.