The proposed bill would amend existing statutes related to dangerous crimes against children by updating definitions and sentencing guidelines. Specifically, it would expand the definition of "dangerous crime against children" to include offenses committed against individuals posing as minors, provided the defendant was aware or had reason to believe the individual was under fifteen years of age. Additionally, the bill would clarify the classification of sexual abuse based on the age of the victim and the relationship of the perpetrator to the victim, establishing that sexual abuse of a victim under fifteen is a class 3 felony, while abuse of a victim aged fifteen or older by someone in a position of trust is classified as a class 4 felony.

Furthermore, the bill would remove certain outdated language regarding sentencing for dangerous crimes against children, specifically eliminating references to manufacturing methamphetamine and the associated physical injury to minors. It would also streamline the sentencing structure by consolidating the subsections that dictate presumptive sentences and the conditions under which they may be adjusted. Overall, these changes aim to enhance the legal framework surrounding the prosecution and sentencing of dangerous crimes against children, ensuring that the law reflects current societal standards and concerns.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 13-705, 13-1404, 31-233, 41-1604.07, 13-1411, 13-701, 13-704, 13-707, 13-3623, 13-3206, 13-3212, 13-1428