This bill seeks to amend the existing law regarding sexual abuse by a parent, guardian, custodian, or person in a position of trust to a child in West Virginia. Specifically, it introduces the concept of "attempt" to the criminal offense, making it a felony for any individual in a position of trust to engage in or attempt to engage in sexual exploitation, sexual intercourse, sexual intrusion, or sexual contact with a child under their care. The penalties for such offenses include imprisonment ranging from five to twenty years, depending on the circumstances, and fines between $500 and $10,000.

The bill modifies the language of the current law by inserting the phrase "attempts to procure, authorize, or induce" in two sections, thereby expanding the scope of the offense to include attempts to facilitate sexual abuse. This change emphasizes that even the attempt to engage in such conduct is punishable under the law, reinforcing the seriousness of the offense and the protection of children from potential abuse. The bill also maintains existing provisions regarding the age of the child and the penalties associated with these offenses.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: