LANSING – Legislation sponsored by state Representative George T. Darany (D-Dearborn) was voted out of the House today and will move to the Senate for consideration. House Bill 4021 will expand the list of intent for kidnapping to include knowingly restraining a minor for the purpose of sexual exploitation. The need for HB 4021 was brought to Darany’s attention by the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office.
“I am very appreciative of the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office for bringing this to my attention,” said Darany. “We can all agree that protecting the well-being of our children is of utmost importance, and strengthening kidnapping laws is one way we can make sure they are kept safe.”
Currently, an individual commits the act of kidnapping if he or she knowingly restrains another person with intent to: hold the person for ransom or reward; as a shield or hostage; to commit a criminal sexual conduct offense, such as rape; to take an individual outside the state; and/or for the purpose of involuntary servitude. Darany’s bill amends the definition of intent by adding a new subsection to include knowingly restraining another person with the intent to engage a child in sexually abusive activity.
“Without the passage of this bill, it will remain possible for individuals to abduct children for the purpose of producing child pornography without the severe penalties that follow a kidnapping indictment,” Darany said. “This legislation is vital in vocalizing the state’s strong commitment to our children, and I will continue to do everything I can to ensure it is signed into law by the governor.”