FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
Arizona Senate Passes Legislation to Crack Down on Child Sexual Predators
PHOENIX, ARIZONA— Legislation to hold child sexual predators in Arizona accountable is awaiting consideration in the House after passing out of the Senate with near unanimous bipartisan support last week.
Sponsored by Majority Leader Janae Shamp, SB 1585 strengthens state laws to protect young boys and girls from pedophiles. The bill modifies the definition of a dangerous crime against children (DCAC) to specifically include acts committed against a person posing as a minor, if the defendant knew, or had reason to know, the purported minor was under the age of 15.
"This bill ensures these monsters, who knowingly and intentionally target someone they believe to be a child, are held accountable under the full weight of our laws," said Majority Leader Shamp. "Whether an undercover officer posing as a child catches the pervert for soliciting sex acts, or the victim is an actual child, both situations deserve serious consequences from our judicial system. The absence of a child does not lessen the severity of the crime that is being committed. The intent to exploit a child remains the same; it's despicable, pure evil, and those who engage in these acts must be fully punished."
During testimony last month in the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Pinal County Attorney Brad Miller revealed two undercover sting operations over a four-week period conducted by Pinal County Sheriff's Office earlier this year resulted in the arrest of 20 adults who were caught luring children for sex acts. Unfortunately, he reported some cases couldn't be charged under DCAC statutes due to a court of appeals opinion on how the current law is to be interpreted.
"Gaps in Arizona's laws may allow some predators to simply receive probation, instead throwing them behind bars where they belong," said Majority Leader Shamp. "A perpetrator who knowingly and intentionally acts with the intent to exploit a child demonstrates a clear willingness to commit irreparable harm. With SB 1585, there will no longer be any unintended consequences for pedophiles. I'm grateful for the support of my colleagues on this legislation to help ensure justice and fully protect vulnerable children."
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For more information, contact:
Kim Quintero
Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus
It's great to see legislation like SB 1585 moving forward to strengthen laws and better protect children from predators. Holding offenders accountable and closing legal gaps is crucial for keeping vulnerable kids safe. This kind of action is definitely needed to ensure that justice is served. On a lighter note, if you're looking for some entertainment, check out The Dog House Megaways for an exciting slot game experience! You can find it here: https://thedoghousemegaways.us. Stay safe, everyone!