Legislation aimed at enhancing law enforcement’s ability to combat online child predators has progressed in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. Sponsored by Representatives Jason Ortitay and Jessica Benham, the bill known as Alicia’s Law has been approved by the House Judiciary Committee and will now be considered by the full House.
Named after Alicia Kozak, who was abducted by an internet predator at age 13 in 2002, the legislation seeks to address a growing issue. “Alicia’s story is heartbreaking, but sadly, it’s not unique anymore,” Ortitay stated. He highlighted that with increased social media use, such crimes are becoming more frequent despite parents’ vigilance. The bill aims to assist law enforcement in swiftly locating missing children and prosecuting offenders.
The proposed law would establish a program within the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) focused on investigating and prosecuting internet crimes against minors. This initiative includes providing grants to law enforcement agencies for creating or supporting task forces dedicated to these investigations. It also proposes funding for training task force members in best practices for detecting and prosecuting these crimes.
These state-level efforts would complement existing federal programs under which 61 task forces nationwide currently operate. In Pennsylvania, only one such task force is active. Alicia’s Law is already enacted in 12 other states.
Ortitay emphasized the nonpartisan nature of child protection: “Protecting kids shouldn’t be a partisan issue,” he said, urging support for equipping law enforcement with necessary tools to ensure children’s safety.
The 46th Legislative District represented by Ortitay covers several areas within Allegheny and Washington counties. Further information can be obtained from Representative Ortitay’s office through Media Contact Tracy Polovick.
