Illinois Drops Statute of Limitations on Child Sex Abuse Crimes

 Posted on November 02, 2017 in Sex Crimes

Except in cases of murder, treason, arson and forgery, among others, the prosecution of crimes is restricted by a statute of limitations. This law sets a time limit under which law enforcement and prosecutors have to charge a suspect with a crime. Illinois made a change earlier this year when legislation was passed and signed that eliminated the statute of limitations for sexual assault and abuse committed against children. 

Reaction to Decades-Old Case Prompted Change

A once-prominent elected official  from the state of Illinois had sexually abused high school students during his time as a teacher and coach in the 1960s and 1970s. When it was learned that he would only face sentencing for financial-related crimes, citizens urged their legislators to make changes to state law. 

The result was a bill eliminating the statute of limitations for crimes of a sexual nature against children. Governor Bruce Rauner signed the bill in August of this year. 

• Illinois is the 37th state to remove a statute of limitations for some or all sex crimes committed when the victim is a child.
• The federal government does not have statute of limitations for sex crimes committed against children.
• Previously, it was necessary for most sexual crimes committed against children to be reported and prosecuted within 20 years of the victim’s 18th birthday. 

Prior to the new law, there were two exceptions to the statute of limitations laws regarding sex abuse crimes committed against children. The first was for those cases in which the crime was committed on or after Jan. 1, 2014. The second exception would take effect when either corroborating physical evidence of the crime existed or a mandated reporter, such as a state social work or some other official, failed to report the abuse on behalf of the minor.

Secure the Representation of an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney

Any kind of criminal conviction will change your life. Conviction on a charge of rape, sexual abuse, or sexual assault will have serious and lasting implications on where you live, the type of job you may pursue and other detail, even if you do not receive a prison sentence. Scott F. Anderson, Attorney at Law, will provide a meticulous review of your case and create an aggressive defense strategy using more than 25 years of experience. Call 847-253-3400 today to schedule an initial consultation with a knowledgeable Arlington Heights criminal defense lawyer.

Sources:

http://wgntv.com/2017/08/15/illinois-wipes-out-statute-of-limitations-for-child-sex-abuse/

http://chicagotonight.wttw.com/2017/08/14/illinois-eliminates-statutes-limitations-child-sex-abuse-crimes

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/editorials/ct-hastert-release-statute-limitations-edit-0720-20170719-story.html