WomensLaw serves and supports all survivors, no matter their sex or gender.

Legal Information: U.S. Virgin Islands

Statutes: Virgin Islands, U.S.

View all
Updated: 
November 15, 2023

1703. Rape in the third degree

(a) Any person under 18 years of age but over 16 years of age who perpetrates an act of sexual intercourse or sodomy with a person who is under 16 years of age but over 13 years of age, under circumstances not amounting to rape in the first degree, is guilty of rape in the third degree and shall be subject to the jurisdiction of the Family Division of the Superior Court pursuant to Title 4, Chapter 11, Virgin Islands Code. In lieu of a term of detention, the court, in its discretion, may recommend appropriate treatment, counseling or family planning.

(b) Spousal consent shall be an affirmative defense in the event the persons are legally married pursuant to the provisions of title 16, chapter 1 of the Virgin Islands Code.