Proposed Changes to Child Sex Crimes Laws After Penn State Scandal
In the aftermath of the Penn State child sexual abuse scandal, some Pennsylvania legislators are proposing a law that would require all citizens to report suspected child abuse and neglect.
January 01, 2012
From Megan's Law to federal charges involving child pornography, criminal statutes that govern child sex crimes come with severe punishments and potential lifelong consequences. In the aftermath of the Penn State child sexual abuse scandal, some legislators are proposing wider-reaching laws that would require all citizens to report suspected abuse.A growing number of states have passed laws that require all citizens to report suspected cases of child abuse or neglect. In Pennsylvania, that legal duty is currently limited to certain professionals, including:
- Physicians, dentists, nurses and other health care professionals
- Members of the clergy
- Teachers, school administrators, social workers, and daycare and foster care workers
- Psychiatrists, psychologists and other mental health professionals
- Law enforcement officers and officials
On the federal level, Pennsylvania Senator Bob Casey has introduced the "Speak Up to Protect Every Abused Kid Act" to provide fiscal incentives for all states to enact laws that require reporting of child abuse or neglect by all citizens. Meanwhile, Pennsylvania legislators will soon debate whether to impose criminal sanctions on citizens who do not report their suspicions of child sexual abuse or child neglect.
Even some child safety advocates point out the shortcomings of such widespread reporting requirements. Mandatory reporting laws can create a tremendous burden on the public agencies that must investigate unfounded or untrue allegations. Limiting such requirements to professionals who have training to identify signs of abuse can lessen the chance of false accusations and destroyed reputations.
Individuals who find themselves the subject of a criminal investigation for child sexual abuse, child pornography possession or Internet sex crimes must understand their legal rights and criminal defense options. Based on the latest developments in the criminal code, Pennsylvania sex crimes lawyers can advise clients about a prudent legal response to volatile allegations.
Article provided by Shaffer & Engle Law Offices, LLC
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