Are There Oklahoma Laws Addressing Sexual Assault by Authority Figures?

Sexual assault is a serious crime, but when it is committed by an authority figure, such as a teacher, coach, employer, or religious leader, the power dynamics involved can make the situation even more complex. Survivors of sexual assault by authority figures often feel trapped, fearing retaliation, disbelief, or damage to their reputation if they come forward. Fortunately, Oklahoma law provides protections for survivors and imposes strict penalties on offenders who abuse their positions of power.

At Koller Baker & Associates, we are committed to advocating for survivors and holding perpetrators accountable. Our legal team works tirelessly to ensure that those harmed by authority figures receive the justice and compensation they deserve. Below is what you need to know about the legal protections in place for survivors of sexual assault by authority figures.

Oklahoma law recognizes that individuals in positions of power can manipulate or coerce victims into unwanted sexual situations. The law takes these cases seriously, acknowledging that the imbalance of power may prevent victims from providing genuine consent.

Under Oklahoma Statutes Title 21, sexual assault committed by an authority figure may be charged as rape, sexual battery, or lewd acts with a minor, depending on the circumstances. The penalties for these crimes are often more severe when the perpetrator is in a position of trust or authority.

Sexual assault by an authority figure can occur in many environments, including workplaces, schools, and religious institutions. Common authority figures who have been implicated in such cases include:

• Teachers and School Staff: Oklahoma law prohibits sexual relationships between school employees and students, even if the student is above the age of consent.
• Coaches and Athletic Staff: Coaches often have significant influence over young athletes, making any sexual misconduct a serious offense.
• Clergy Members: Religious leaders hold positions of trust, and Oklahoma law allows survivors to file civil lawsuits against churches and religious institutions that fail to prevent abuse.
• Employers and Supervisors: Workplace sexual harassment and assault are covered under both criminal and civil law, and victims have legal options to hold offenders accountable.

Law Enforcement Officers: Officers of the law who engage in sexual misconduct while on duty or abusing their authority face significant criminal penalties.

In Oklahoma, sexual assault by an authority figure is considered an aggravated offense, often resulting in stricter penalties. These may include:

• Lengthy Prison Sentences – Depending on the severity of the crime, offenders may face decades in prison.
• Mandatory Sex Offender Registration – Convicted individuals must register as sex offenders, which places restrictions on where they can live and work.
• Loss of Professional Licenses – Teachers, coaches, and other professionals convicted of sexual assault may be permanently barred from working in their field.

Civil Lawsuits – Survivors may file lawsuits against both the perpetrator and any institution that failed to prevent the abuse.

Survivors of sexual assault by authority figures often fear retaliation, but Oklahoma law provides protections to encourage reporting and support victims. These include:

• Protective Orders: Survivors can obtain legal orders to prevent the offender from contacting them.
• Extended Statutes of Limitations: Oklahoma has extended the time survivors have to file criminal charges and civil lawsuits, recognizing that many victims need time to come forward.

Whistleblower Protections: Employees who report workplace sexual misconduct are protected from retaliation under Oklahoma law.

Coming forward after experiencing sexual assault by an authority figure can be incredibly difficult, but survivors don’t have to navigate the process alone. At Koller Baker & Associates, we provide compassionate legal representation to survivors, helping them understand their rights, file lawsuits, and seek justice.

If you or a loved one has been a victim of sexual assault by an authority figure, contact Koller Baker & Associates today to learn how we can help you take legal action and reclaim your power.