Bill > SB0284

This bill amends the Criminal Code of 2012 to strengthen protections against sexual offenses involving minors by implementing strict limitations on plea bargains. Specifically, the bill prohibits individuals charged with involuntary sexual servitude of a minor or trafficking in persons involving victims under 18 years old from pleading down to lesser offenses. Prosecutors are explicitly forbidden from offering plea bargains in these cases. Additionally, the bill expands restrictions on child sex offenders by making it a Class 4 felony for such offenders to knowingly operate, manage, be employed by, volunteer at, or be associated with any facility providing entertainment exclusively directed toward persons under the age of 18. These provisions aim to enhance legal protections for minors and reduce opportunities for sexual predators to minimize their criminal liability through plea negotiations. The bill represents a significant tightening of legal standards surrounding sexual offenses against children, with the goal of providing more robust legal consequences for perpetrators and increased protection for potential victims.

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=284&GAID=18&DocTypeID=SB&SessionID=114&GA=104