Senate passes bill that protects kids from sexual predators

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Senate unanimously passed a bill Thursday that will close a loophole that allowed anyone in authoritative positions to engage in sexual relations with children.

Sen. Jessica de la Cruz’s bill makes anyone in position of power who has sexual contact with a child over 14 and under 18 years old guilty of third-degree sexual assault. That charge has a penalty of up to five years in prison.

“Parents are angry and scared. It is crazy to think that until the governor signs this bill, it is perfectly legal for teachers or coaches to have sexual relations with children,” said de la Cruz (R-Dist. 23). “I am grateful that my colleagues agree that our children need to be protected.”

“There has been a deluge of reports of teachers and coaches behaving inappropriately. We need to make certain the consequences of such reprehensible crimes are severe and appropriate,” said de la Cruz.

That bill will now go to the House of Representatives for approval.

A House version sponsored by Rep. Julie Casimiro (D-Dist. 31) is being heard in the House Judiciary Committee Friday.