Costa's sex trafficking bill OKd in House; increases jail time, fine for sex predators

4/11/2014

News

STATE HOUSE – The House of Representatives has approved legislation sponored by Rep. Doreen Costa (R-Dist. 31, North Kingstown, Exeter) that will increase the penalties for sex trafficking of a minor from 40 years of imprisonment to 50 years and also incrase the penalties for obstruction or interference with enforcement of sex traffacking laws from 20 years to 35 years in prison. It also hikes the fine from $20,000 to $40,000.

The bill (2014- H7916) now goes to the Senate for consideration.

“Rhode Island criminalized human trafficking in 2009. That is just five short years ago. Think about that! Together we have taken the next step to stand up for the victims of sex trafficking in our state by strengthening our laws,” said Representative Costa.

“Jail time for these sexual predators has changed from 40 to 50 years. Anyone found guilty of interfering with or obstructing enforcement of sex trafficking laws will now face 35 years of imprisonment rather than 20 years and the fine has increased from $20,000 to $40,000.”

“These people don’t belong on our streets. You know it, I know it and now they know it. We will not stop until we are safe from one of the most horrific crimes against kids and adults.”

“Consider the nightmare of being taken against your will by a sex predator, to be forced into that dark, scary world with no where to turn. We have many voices in our state who speak out for victims but they don’t always get the support or the headlines that they deserve for their heart wrenching work.”

“I hope that by bringing this horrific criminal activity back to the forefront that more people will consider volunteering to help victims move forward with their lives.”

“Along with my colleagues in the House, my bill had the support of State Police Superintendent Col. Stephen G. O’Donnell, Attorney General Peter F. Kilmartin and the Rhode Island Brotherhood of Correctional Officers., and I thank them for that.”

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For more information, contact:
Louise Tetreault, House Minority Office
State House Room 106
Providence, RI 02903
(401) 222-2259

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