In New York, it is illegal for an adult (someone 18 or older) to have sex with a minor (someone younger than 17), even if the sex is consensual. Those who break the law have committed statutory rape.

Is 17 the legal age of consent in NY?

The age of consent in New York is 17 years old. That means anyone who is 16 years of age or younger cannot provide legal consent to sexual activity. When a person has consensual sexual intercourse with a minor who is under 17 years old, they could be charged with statutory rape.