Sexual Assault by an Ex-Partner

A woman has a child with a man, but broke up with him before the child was born due to an incident of domestic violence. They had little contact for several years.

When the child was almost three, the man came over to her house. He suggested that they go somewhere with the child and get a meal. She went with him, and they ate, but instead of driving her home afterward he drove to a secluded area. He told her that he would not take her home unless she performed oral sex on him. She complied. She is afraid to go to the police.

What can be done?

For any criminal prosecution, the woman will have to report the incident to the police. The crimes described include an unlawful detention (or kidnapping) and sexual assault.

Similarly, if the mother wants to modify the custody order based upon the incident, she will have to disclose the facts in court.

She may benefit from speaking with a counselor, or consulting a domestic violence shelter for support and a possible referral to a lawyer or other professional who can assist and advise her.