Many states have enacted “Romeo and Juliet” exceptions to protect young people from criminal charges as a result of consensual sexual activity with other young people. Minnesota’s laws criminalize any sexual conduct with a child under the age of 13. PERIOD. For children between the ages 13, 14, or 15 the age difference depends on whether there was sexual penetration or sexual contact. If the conduct involves penetration, it is not a crime so long as the actor is no more than 24-months older. If the conduct involves only sexual contact, it is not a crime so long as the actor no more than 48-months older and not in a position of authority.