PIERRE, S.D. (AP) - A South Dakota House committee has unanimously approved a bill to make it easier to prosecute those who traffic minors between the age of 16 and 18.
The bill that advanced Monday would eliminate the need to prove force, fraud or coercion when prosecuting someone for trafficking minors. Supporters say minors might not testify against their traffickers because they don’t realize they’ve fallen victim.
Sponsor Rep. Thomas Holmes, a Republican from Sioux Falls, says the changing the law could allow prosecutors to lock up more sex traffickers.
The Argus Leader reports (https://argusne.ws/2jVG8B6 ) South Dakota and New York are the only states that require proof of force, fraud or coercion. Police say that requirement makes the state “particularly palatable to traffickers” and makes Sioux Falls a “destination city” for the crime.
___
Information from: Argus Leader, https://www.argusleader.com
Please read our comment policy before commenting.