Kentucky Criminal Statute of Limitations

Statute: §§ 131.125, 145, 155

Summary: The following sets forth a description of a particular crime or infraction, followed by the time period following such crime within which a legal action can be initiated.  If action is not taken within the stated period below, the victim may potentially lose its right to press charges and the state may no longer be entitled to prosecute:

Felonies:

• Murder, manslaughter: N/A
• Sexual felonies including criminal mistreatment sexual abuse in 1st and 2nd degree, rape, sodomy, incest, promoting or compelling prostitution: 6 years or if victim was under 18 years old at time of offense, anytime before victim turns 24 years old, whichever occurs first
• Other felonies: 3 years

Misdemeanors:

• Sexual misdemeanors, sexual abuse in the 3rd degree or sending, furnishing, exhibiting or displaying obscene materials to minors: 4 years after the offense is reported or if victim is under 18 years old, upon turning 22 years old, whichever occurs first

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