The bill S. 28 aims to enhance the legal framework surrounding child sexual abuse in South Carolina by introducing the offense of "obscene visual representations of child sexual abuse." It defines this offense and establishes penalties for individuals who knowingly produce, distribute, or possess such representations, which include various forms of visual depictions like drawings, cartoons, and photographs. The penalties for these offenses range from a minimum of two years to a maximum of ten years in prison, with specific provisions for minors charged under this section, allowing for family court adjudication and potential behavioral health counseling. Additionally, the bill clarifies that the existence of an actual minor is not a required element for prosecution under this section.

Furthermore, the bill amends the sex offender registry laws to include the new offense of obscene visual representations of child sexual abuse, ensuring that individuals convicted of this crime will be subject to registration requirements. It also makes conforming changes to the termination of registration requirements for offenders, specifying the conditions under which they may apply for removal from the registry. The bill emphasizes the importance of protecting children from sexual exploitation and reinforces the legal consequences for those who engage in such activities.

Statutes affected:
12/11/2024: 16-15-390, 23-3-430, 23-3-462
02/05/2025: 16-15-390, 23-3-430, 23-3-462
02/05/2025-A: 16-15-390, 23-3-430, 23-3-462
02/06/2025: 16-15-390, 23-3-430, 23-3-462
02/11/2025: 16-15-390, 23-3-430, 23-3-462
02/12/2025: 16-15-390, 23-3-430, 23-3-462
02/13/2025: 16-15-390, 23-3-430, 23-3-462
04/30/2025: 16-15-390, 23-3-430, 23-3-462
05/01/2025: 16-15-390, 23-3-430, 23-3-462
05/02/2025: 16-15-390, 23-3-430, 23-3-462
05/06/2025: 16-15-390, 23-3-430, 23-3-462
05/08/2025: 16-15-390, 23-3-430, 23-3-462
Latest Version: 16-15-390, 23-3-430, 23-3-462