Lewd or lascivious acts with a child under 14 are defined under which Penal Code section?

• A. PC 288
• B. PC 261
• C. PC 289
• D. PC 287

Answer: (A)

Penal Code section 288 specifically covers lewd or lascivious acts with a child under 14. This statute targets an adult or older person who engages in sexual conduct or touches a child’s private parts with the intent to arouse or satisfy sexual desires. The crucial elements are the victim’s age (under 14), the lewd nature of the act, and the offender’s intent to arouse or satisfy sexual desires. Penetration isn’t required for this offense; touching or other lewd acts with a young child can meet the definition. This distinguishes it from other offenses like rape by force, sexual assault with a foreign object, or oral copulation, which are defined by different statutes and elements.