Bill > SB142

This bill amends Delaware law to strengthen protections against sexual extortion by expanding the definition and increasing potential criminal penalties. Under the new provisions, sexual extortion occurs when a person intentionally compels another to engage in sexual acts or produce sexual content by instilling fear of potential harmful consequences, such as physical injury, property damage, criminal accusations, reputation harm, or other actions meant to materially harm the victim. While previously classified as a class E felony, the bill now establishes two tiers of criminal charges: it remains a class E felony in standard cases, but becomes a more serious class B felony if the victim is a child or vulnerable adult, or if the extortion causes serious physical injury or death. Additionally, the bill requires educational programming in schools to include age-appropriate instruction about sexual extortion, teaching students about online safety, the dangers of such acts, and providing resources for prevention and support. School training for administrators and counselors must now specifically include coordination with law enforcement regarding potential sexual extortion incidents. The changes to educational programming will be implemented by August 1, 2027, allowing time for schools to develop and integrate the new curriculum.

Justice

https://legis.delaware.gov/BillDetail?LegislationId=142276