I don't know what the law says in the US but in my country 16 is the age of consent for either straight or gay sex. The situation with Foley strikes me as a gay witchhunt. Yes I think his behaviour was inappropriate. I wouldn't be happy if a 16 year old son of mine was being pursued by someone twice his age or more but if he choose to flirt or go further with either Mr or Mrs Robinson that would be up to him. I would hope that he would show good judgement and choose a partner much closer to his own age where the power relationship is far more balanced but there comes a time and an age when people must be free to make their own choices.

Yes there is a reek of paedophilia but there is also a reek of homophobia.

Lawmaker's Intentions Appear Clear In Exchanges - washingtonpost.com