Major Signs That a Person May Be a Sexual Predator
There were 1,414 registered sex offenders living in Tucson as of January 24, 2025. While that number is small compared to the total population of the area, it is still unsettling to realize that one of your neighbors could be on the sex offender list. Even worse is realizing there are sexual predators all over the state that are not yet on the registration.
Forty-four percent of women and 25% of men report being sexually assaulted at some point in their lifetimes. Recovering from sexual abuse, rape, and other sex crimes is a long and painful journey for most survivors. Understanding some of the warning signs that a person may be a predator can help you keep yourself and your loved ones safer.
What Is a Sexual Predator?
A sexual predator is a person who seeks out sexual contact in an abusive manner. They might stalk or groom a person they wish to victimize. “Grooming” means building a positive relationship with a potential victim so they will be easier to take advantage of in the future.
Predators commit sex crimes such as assault, sexual harassment, and sexual abuse. Their preferred victims can be children (as is the case with pedophiles) or adults. It is not the desire for sex that drives a predator; instead, it is the opportunity to control or dominate another person.
5 Warning Signs of a Sexual Predator
Before discussing the signs of a predator, it should be noted that signs can be misinterpreted. No one is considered guilty under the law until a judge or jury declares it. Starting rumors about someone else being a predator could open the door for a defamation of character lawsuit. Incorrectly accusing a person of sexual misconduct could ruin their life and yours.
These signs may be considered red flags of questionable or even dangerous behavior, but unless you witness certain behaviors firsthand, your interpretation could be incorrect.
1. Creating Dependence
Sexual predators work to create dependency in their victims. They may start a relationship by showering a person with gifts, praise, and positive attention. This helps create a feeling of trust from the victim. The victim may feel like the predator understands them better than anyone else or appreciates their strengths more than others.
2. Using Manipulative Language
After establishing a bond of trust and dependence, a predator may begin to use manipulative language. Mocking their victim’s behavior, clothes, friends, or other choices can make the victim feel insecure and even more dependent. Gaslighting — a type of emotional abuse that makes people question their own eyes, thoughts, and memories — is also common.
3. Pushing Boundaries
Sexual predators use grooming and manipulation to push sexual boundaries beyond their victim’s comfort levels. With children, this may look like “innocent” gestures such as helping them in the bath or changing their clothes. Predators try to normalize certain sexual behaviors so their victims will agree to tasks they are not comfortable with.
4. Controlling
Trying to control another person’s media activity, friendships, family relationships, day-to-day activities, or personal life can be a sign of predatory behavior. This can be especially true if the person is trying to isolate or limit contact with other people. Perpetrators of domestic violence often use this tactic.
5. Having Unusual Associations With Children
Certainly, not everyone who is kind to children is a sexual predator. However, if an adult shows a particular interest in cultivating “friendships” with children of any age, it could be a red flag. People who frequently encourage physical play such as wrestling, tickling, or hugging are especially concerning.
There Is Help For Victims of Sexual Predators
Speaking up about sexual abuse or assault is difficult, but there is help. If you’ve been victimized, consider speaking with a therapist or joining a support group. Remember, you are not alone, and taking that first step towards healing can make a world of difference. Your voice matters, and there are people ready to listen and support you.
Contact an Experienced Tucson Sex Crimes Lawyer at Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys Today For Help
For more information, contact the Tucson sex crimes attorneys at Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys for a free consultation.
Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys
177 N Church Ave # 900, Tucson, AZ 85701
(520) 510-0439