When is someone charged with assault against a person with a disability?

The correct answer is that a person is charged with assault against a person with a disability when the assailant knows about the disability. This is significant because the law recognizes that individuals with disabilities may be more vulnerable and targeted due to their condition.

Understanding the intent behind the act is crucial in determining the severity of the charge. If the assailant is aware that their victim has a disability, it can imply a greater level of malicious intent or exploitation of the victim's vulnerability. This heightened awareness can lead to more serious charges, reflecting society's commitment to protecting individuals with disabilities from harm.

The other contexts presented do not meet the legal criteria for this specific charge. For instance, physical contact alone does not automatically constitute assault unless it meets specific criteria or intent. Similarly, if a disability is merely suspected but not confirmed, it does not fulfill the requirement to charge the assailant with specific crimes against individuals with disabilities. Lastly, the victim's age is not a factor that directly relates to the charge of assault against a person with a disability; the focus is on the assailant's knowledge of the victim's disability.