Aggravating Circumstances

Special circumstances tending to increase the severity of the crime charged (comparing sexual assault with aggravated sexual assault on a minor) or the severity of punishment. Enhanced punishment may be applied for offenses involving murder for hire or other crimes for profit such as arson; extreme cruelty or depravity; substantial prior criminal record; failure of rehabilitative efforts; particular vulnerability of the victim due to advanced age, extreme youth, or disability; and many other factors that may be considered by the court. Compare mitigating circumstances.