In a case involving a 15-year-old and a 22-year-old engaging in consensual sex, what action needs to be taken?

• A. No action is required since it is consensual
• B. A report must be filed for suspected statutory rape
• C. Consult with legal counsel before deciding
• D. Contact the parents of the 15-year-old

Answer: (B)

In situations involving a 15-year-old and a 22-year-old engaging in consensual sex, the most appropriate action to take is to file a report for suspected statutory rape. The reason this is the correct response lies in the laws surrounding sexual consent, which vary by jurisdiction but generally set a legal age of consent that is higher than 15 in many places.

Statutory rape laws are designed to protect minors who may not fully understand or be able to fully consent to sexual activities with significantly older individuals. In this scenario, regardless of the consent given by the 15-year-old, the law typically considers that a minor is incapable of giving informed consent to sexual acts with an adult, leading to potential legal repercussions for the adult involved.

Reporting suspected statutory rape is an important step in safeguarding the minor’s well-being, allowing for an investigation into the situation which can provide the necessary support and resources for the affected party. This aligns with mandated reporter laws, which often require professionals in certain fields to report suspected abuse or exploitation of minors to the appropriate authorities.

Actions such as consulting legal counsel or contacting the parents may be appropriate depending on the specific context and relationships involved, but failing to report the situation could leave the minor unprotected from further