### Question
How is the term sexually violent offense defined?


### Answer
The term **sexually violent offense** is defined in *42 U.S.C. § 14071* as the following:

> any criminal offense that consists of aggravated sexual abuse or sexual abuse (as described in sections 2241 and 2242 of title 18 or as described in the State criminal code) or an offense that has as its elements engaging in physical contact with another person with intent to commit aggravated sexual abuse or sexual abuse (as described in such sections of title 18 or as described in the State criminal code)

#### Citation:
  - *42 U.S.C. § 14071*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 136-VIOLENT CRIME CONTROL AND LAW ENFORCEMENT > SUBCHAPTER VI-CRIMES AGAINST CHILDREN**

