What kind of felony is a person guilty of when abusing a minor in a manner that does not constitute aggravated assault, if the victim is under 7 years of age?

In South Dakota, the law classifies various offenses against minors according to their severity, especially when it comes to child abuse. When a person abuses a minor and the victim is under 7 years of age, the law stipulates that such conduct, unless it escalates to aggravated assault, is categorized as a Class 3 felony. This classification is significant due to the state's priority on protecting young children from harm and the serious nature of violating their well-being.

Class 3 felonies carry substantial penalties, reflecting the legal system's recognition of the vulnerability of minors, particularly those not yet in school. This charge aims to deter harmful behaviors toward children and underscores the gravity of the offense.

The other classifications, such as Class 2, Class 4, and Class 5 felonies, pertain to different levels of severity in offenses. A Class 2 felony involves more severe actions than those described in this scenario, while Class 4 and Class 5 felonies are reserved for lesser offenses against persons or property. Thus, understanding the specific legal definitions and classifications in South Dakota highlights why the actions described in the question align with a Class 3 felony, emphasizing the state's commitment to safeguarding children from abuse.