Democratic Floor Leader John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) speaks at the “End Sextortion Now” press conference on Sept. 25, 2024, in Lansing.
LANSING, Mich., Jan. 23, 2025 — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed “Jordan D’s Law” into law recently, two bills establishing greater protections against threats of online sextortion targeting minors and other vulnerable people in Michigan. The package is named in the memory of Jordan DeMay, a bright 17-year-old from Marquette who tragically took his own life in 2022 after becoming a victim of an online sextortion scheme.
“I am proud to see our state take significant steps to combat one of the fastest-growing crimes against our children and vulnerable Michiganders,” said Democratic Floor Leader John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming), sponsor of House Bill 5887. “This package honors Jordan’s life and ensures perpetrators of this insidious crime are brought to justice. The policy also empowers kids to ask their parents and teachers for help when they need it — keeping kids safe is a priority Michigan Democrats will never give up on.”
House Bills 5887–88 enhance criminal penalties and outline sentencing guidelines for those who commit sextortion. The package creates tiered penalties, including more severe consequences for repeat offenders, to ensure all perpetrators are brought to justice.
“We must use a multi-pronged approach to combating sextortion,” said state Rep. Kara Hope (D-Holt), sponsor of House Bill 5888. “Increasing the sentences shows that Michigan is serious about preventing sextortion before it starts and bringing perpetrators to justice. I hope this legislation will start some candid conversations and education on how to recognize sextortion. This is how we protect our children and save lives.”
House Bill 5889, sponsored by former state Rep. Jenn Hill, is also a part of the package that would require schools to provide teaching and training on sextortion. This bill passed the House last term but was not put up for a vote in the Senate.
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