Today, the First Circuit examined whether Maine's gross aggravated assault statute, which criminalizes engaging in a sexual act with a victim under the age of 14, qualifies as a crime of violence under the federal law sentencing law.  In finding that it does, the court observed that the commission of this offense creates a risk that the perpetrator will intentionally use force against the victim.  This implies that the conviction would likely be considered a crime of violence under 8 USC 16(b), which defines crimes of violence of immigration purposes.

The full text of United States v. Velazquez can be found here: http://media.ca1.uscourts.gov/pdf.opinions/14-1295P-01A.pdf

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