Fraud could lead to rape charge under legislation

A New Jersey lawmaker is pursuing legislation that could result in sexual assault charges if one party lies about his or her identity.

Democratic Assemblyman Troy Singleton has introduced a measure that would expand the state’s sexual assault penalties to include sex committed by fraud.

Violators would face 10 to 20 years in prison and up to a $200,000 fine for a conviction of first-degree sexual assault.

Singleton introduced the legislation after a constituent who was involved in a fraudulent relationship contacted him. Mischele Lewis says she was in a relationship with a man who falsely claimed to work for the British government.

  • WHYY thanks our sponsors — become a WHYY sponsor

Critics of the measure say it would be difficult for courts to uphold.

The legislation was first reported on by NJ.com.

WHYY is your source for fact-based, in-depth journalism and information. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on financial support from readers like you. Please give today.

Want a digest of WHYY’s programs, events & stories? Sign up for our weekly newsletter.

Together we can reach 100% of WHYY’s fiscal year goal