Policy Text
The Kern County Sheriff’s Office is committed to work in partnership with our community to enhance the safety, security, and quality of life for the
residents and visitors of Kern County through professional public safety services.
DONNY YOUNGBLOOD
Sheriff-Coroner
1350 Norris Road, Bakersfield, California 93308-2231
Telephone (661) 391-7500
Legal Update
Assembly Bill 1171
“Spousal Rape” – California Penal Code Section 262
In October of 2021, Assembly Bill 1171 (AB 1171) was enacted which repealed California
Penal Code section 262, commonly referred to as “spousal rape.” All other types of rape,
as contained in Penal Code sections 261(a)(2)-(7), apply regardless of whether the
perpetrator and victim are spouses.
Although Penal Code 261(a)(1) does not apply where the perpetrator and victim are
spouses, the section specifically provides that nothing in PC 261(a)(1) precludes the
prosecution of a spouse who commits the act from