Feigenholtz's Legislation on Child Sex Offenders Wins Approval

A measure supported by State Rep. Sara Feigenholtz (D- Chicago) to prevent child sex offenders from escaping prosecution passed the House last week.

House Bill 1063 removes the statute of limitation on certain child sex crimes, including criminal sexual assault and abuse, if the victim was under the age of 18 at the time of the crime. This gives law enforcement the opportunity to prosecute these crimes even when the victims come forward years after the crime was committed.

“Child victims are frequently more hesitant to come forward and speak out against their abusers, either because they are scared, confused, or the perpetrator is someone they know,” said Feigenholtz. “This bill allows victims to seek justice and keeps dangerous child sex offenders from getting away from their crimes.” 

The current law requires most prosecutions to begin within 3 years of the crime for felony offenses and within 1.5 years of the crime for misdemeanor offenses. The law already allows for extensions under certain circumstance for some child sex crimes.

Want more local news? Sign up for the scoop in Lake View here, or sign up for the buzz in Lincoln Park here. It's always free and totally easy!

“We are committed to ending the suffering of sexual assault victims and holding sex offenders accountable for their crimes,” said Lyn Schollett, general counsel for the Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault. “Children who have been victimized by sexual violence experience unimaginable trauma. Sex offenders often prevent child victims from reporting the crime by blaming or threatening the child. This bill will ensure that when a survivor of childhood sexual abuse is safe enough to report the crime, prosecutors can stand ready to charge the offender.” 

House Bill 1063 is being considered by the Senate. For more information, contact Feigenholtz’s constituent services office at (773) 296-4141 or sara@staterepsara.com.