When is "lewd and lascivious conduct" deemed reportable?

The scenario in which "lewd and lascivious conduct" becomes reportable is when a minor under the age of 14 is involved with someone who is at least 10 years older than they are. In California, this specific age difference indicates a significant power imbalance and raises concerns about exploitation, making it a mandatory reporting situation under child abuse laws. The law aims to protect minors from sexual exploitation and abuse, particularly in situations where an adult or a much older individual is involved with a child.

In contrast, the other situations described do not meet the legal requirements for reporting. If both parties are minors under 14, while their conduct may be concerning, it does not fall under the mandatory reporting statute as no adult is involved. Mutual interest, regardless of the parties' ages, does not necessarily warrant a report, as the focus is on protecting minors from situations where there is a predatory or exploitative dynamic. Furthermore, a relationship between a 15-year-old and a 20-year-old does not automatically meet the statutory criteria for reportable conduct due to the proximity in age, as California law allows for some consensual conduct among minors and young adults within a certain age range. Thus, the correct answer is centered on the specific legal