On February 6, 2024, the Pennsylvania State Police were informed that a child between the ages of 5 and 6 had been a victim of sexual abuse more than 20 times. The offender was named as a 21-year-old individual named Jordan Sass. Records from the court show that the abuse took place in 2016 when Sass was 14 years old.

While the accusations and charges came years after the alleged crimes took place, Sass is now facing serious charges. These include child rape, aggravated indecent assault of a child, aggravated indecent assault without consent, aggravated indecent assault of a person under 13, indecent assault of a person under 13, and corruption of minors. He is currently free on $25,000 unsecured bail, as per court documents.

If you have been accused of a sexual assault crime, contact the LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team today at 888-535-3686 or fill out an online form. We have extensive experience in defending charged individuals against child abuse allegations.

Sexual Abuse Law in Pennsylvania

Pursuant to Pennsylvania Cons. Stat. Tit. 23, § 6303; Tit. 18 § 3126, the crime of sexual abuse or exploitation involves the recruitment, utilization, manipulation, encouragement, temptation, or coercion of a minor to participate in or facilitate another person's involvement in sexually explicit behavior.

The accused could be charged with statutory sexual assault if the victim was under 16 years old, and the accused was at least four years older than the victim — and they were not married at the time of the incident.

Pennsylvania Statutes of Limitations for Sexual Abuse

A statute of limitations is a legal provision that establishes the maximum timeframe within which a lawsuit can be filed. These laws are designed to encourage timely claims while evidence is still available — and to avoid the perpetual fear of a criminal case looming over an individual.

In cases of sexual abuse, the statute of limitations dictates the period during which a victim can report the offense, pursue legal action, or seek compensation through a civil lawsuit against the accused party. Pennsylvania updated its civil statute of limitations for child sexual abuse victims in 2019, allowing them to file civil actions until they turn 55.

The current law also extends the right to sue for those abused between 18 and 24, giving them until they reach 30 to file lawsuits. It's important to note that these changes do not apply retroactively and do not cover cases of abuse that occurred before 2019.

How the LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team Can Help

Our Criminal Defense Team has successfully defended Pennsylvania residents facing sexual abuse and allegations. Contact our team promptly after your arrest, and we will strive to guarantee a fair and impartial process.

Severe penalties — including lengthy imprisonment — await those who commit these crimes. The court system does not view individuals accused of child abuse in a positive light. To schedule a confidential consultation today, contact our Criminal Defense Team at 888-535-3686 or fill out a contact form.