This bill amends the penalties associated with the crime of molestation of a juvenile in Louisiana, specifically targeting cases where the victim is between the ages of thirteen and seventeen. The amendments increase the minimum prison sentence from five years to ten years for offenders who have control or supervision over the juvenile. Additionally, the bill specifies that offenders in a supervisory role, which includes educators and individuals involved in religious, charitable, scientific, educational, athletic, or youth-serving activities, face a more severe penalty of imprisonment for not less than ten years and up to forty years, with at least ten years of the sentence served without the possibility of parole, probation, or suspension.

The bill also clarifies that individuals convicted under these circumstances are not eligible to have their convictions set aside or their prosecutions dismissed, reinforcing the seriousness of the offense. Overall, the legislation aims to strengthen protections for juveniles and impose stricter consequences on those who exploit their positions of trust and authority.

Statutes affected:
HB130 Original: 14:2(B)(2)
HB130 Engrossed: 14:2(B)(2)
HB130 Enrolled: 14:2(B)(2)
HB130 Act 597: 14:2(B)(2)