May 24, 2006

Sebelius signs crackdown on criminals who prey on children
Governor signs Jessica’s Law during event at Johnson County Courthouse

OLATHE, Kan. – Perpetrators of some of the worst crimes imaginable will now face tougher prison sentences as a result of action taken today by Governor Kathleen Sebelius.

During a signing ceremony at the Johnson County Courthouse Sebelius signed Jessica’s Law, which is aimed at sex offenders who prey on children.

“Jessica’s Law will help keep these offenders off our streets and out of our neighborhoods. When coupled with the new tools we’re providing to law enforcement, we’re making our children safer and giving moms and dads added peace of mind,” said Sebelius.

Jessica’s Law sets out a minimum prison sentence of 25 years for first-time sex offenders when the victim is a child. A second such crime would result in a mandatory 40 year prison sentence and a third such crime results in a sentence of life without parole.

The new sentences are complemented by Governor Sebelius’ proposal to use GPS tracking devices to keep track of the movements of second-time child sex offenders who have served their prison time, giving law enforcement officers a new tool to protect children.

“It’s been clear to me for some time that Kansans want tougher sentences for sex offenders and law enforcement officers want help tracking these criminals,” said Sebelius. “I’m pleased to say we’ve responded to both of these calls, and Kansas is becoming a safer place to live and raise a family.”

Sebelius called for tougher penalties for these offenders during her first address to the Legislature in 2003. She reiterated that call in her State of the State address earlier this year, where she also proposed lifetime electronic tracking of repeat offenders.

The tracking devices were funded by the Legislature in the budget earlier this year, and their use in conjunction with lifetime supervision is reaffirmed as part of Jessica’s Law.

“I want to thank all the legislators who came together to support these important safety initiatives, as well as the law enforcement officers and prosecutors who work together to protect us,” said Sebelius.

Also under HB 2576, a registered sex offender will now be required to report to the local sheriff’s office annually during the offender’s birth month. At this time, the sheriff will take an updated photograph of the offender. The offender will then report for the next six months on days and times determined by the local sheriff’s office.

The bill will take effect upon publication in the statute book.