Governor signs Rep. Costa, Sen. Morgan's sex trafficking bill

News

STATE HOUSE -- Gov. Gina Raimondo has signed legislation sponsored by Rep. Doreen Costa (R-Dist. 31, Exeter, North Kingstown) and Sen. Elaine J. Morgan (R-Dist. 34, Charlestown, Exeter, Hopkinton, Richmond, West Greenwich) that provides harsher penalties to those engaging in sex trafficking of minors.

The law makes the penalty for sex trafficking of a minor punishable by 50 years in prison.  The previouslaw provided a 40-year jail sentence for trafficking a minor.  The law also increases the penalties for obstructing or interfering with sex trafficking law from 20 years in jail to 35 year and a fine of $40,000.

I am thrilled that my legislation has passed into law in our state. I led the way in 2014 to seek more stringent penalties against offenders who commit the horrific act of sex trafficking,” said Representative Costa.

Representative Costa continued, “It seems that media coverage about sex trafficking has remained somewhat constant and that coverage certainly leaves the impression that this problem has not declined.”

“Our new law sends an unequivocal and strong message that our judicial system will impose increased jail time from 40 to 50 years for those predators who are found guilty. Further, anyone found guilty of interfering with or obstructing enforcement of sex trafficking laws will face 35 years of imprisonment and a fine of $40,000.00.”

“I am committed to keeping our streets safe for our youngsters.”

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

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