Sexual assault is generally forced sexual intercourse, sodomy, or other sexual penetration of another person—against the person’s will and without the person’s consent. And although precise definitions and punishments vary from state to state, the criminal offense of aggravated sexual assault generally includes aggravating circumstances that increase the severity of the sexual assault—such as when the assailant or perpetrator uses, displays, or threatens the victim with a deadly weapon (a gun or knife); when the assailant uses a rape drug to incapacitate the victim; or when the victim is a child under a certain age, as defined by the statute.

In Iowa, sexual assault is legally referred to as 'sexual abuse' and is defined under Iowa Code Section 709. Sexual abuse occurs when there is any sex act committed by force or against the will of the other party, which can include sexual intercourse, sodomy, or any sexual penetration without consent. Aggravated sexual abuse in Iowa involves circumstances that increase the gravity of the offense, such as the use of a weapon, causing bodily injury, or committing the act against a minor. Specifically, if the perpetrator uses a dangerous weapon or displays a weapon in a threatening manner during the assault, or if the victim is incapacitated due to the influence of a drug administered without consent, these factors can lead to more severe charges and penalties. Additionally, the age of the victim is a critical factor; sexual abuse against a child under a certain age is treated with heightened severity under Iowa law. Penalties for sexual abuse in Iowa can range from a Class 'C' felony to a Class 'A' felony, depending on the circumstances, with Class 'A' felonies carrying the possibility of a life sentence without the possibility of parole.