Bill criminalizing sexual assault for person in ‘position of authority’ up for final passage
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) –Rhode Island House lawmakers are expected to vote Tuesday on a bill designed to criminalize sexual assault where the assaulter is in a “position of authority.”
The bill was inspired in part by former North Kingstown basketball coach Aaron Thomas was initially introduced by Sen. Jessica de la Cruz. She said the legislation is to close a loophole that allows those in positions of power to engage in sexual relations with children between 14 and 18 years old.
If passed, any instance where the assaulter “accused has supervisory or disciplinary power over the victim by virtue of the accused’s legal, professional or occupational status; or the accused is otherwise acting in a position of authority with respect to the victim,” would be classified as third-degree sexual assault.
The bill has already been unanimously approved by the Senate. House approval would send the legislation to the Gov. Dan McKee’s desk for his signature.
