This bill seeks to amend West Virginia's Code regarding child abuse, specifically focusing on the criminal offense of sexual abuse by a parent, guardian, custodian, or person in a position of trust to a child. The key change introduced by this bill is the inclusion of "attempt" in the definitions of these offenses. It establishes that if a parent, guardian, custodian, or person in a position of trust engages in or attempts to engage in sexual exploitation or sexual acts with a child, they will be guilty of a felony, with penalties ranging from five to twenty years of imprisonment, depending on the circumstances and the age of the child involved.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that any person in a position of trust who knowingly attempts to procure, authorize, or induce another person to engage in such sexual acts with a child will also face felony charges. The penalties for these offenses vary based on the age of the child, with specific provisions for those under sixteen and those sixteen or older. The bill also includes a provision that exempts custodians or persons in a position of trust whose age exceeds that of the child by less than four years from these penalties. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen the legal framework surrounding child sexual abuse by addressing attempts to commit such offenses.

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