Louisiana Enacts Groundbreaking Anti-Grooming Law
Louisiana has taken a major step to protect children from sexual abuse by outlawing grooming behaviors. The new law, passed unanimously by the state’s legislature, criminalizes emotional manipulation and coercion aimed at establishing intimate relationships with minors under 17. Spearheaded by State Senator Pat Connick at the urging of his daughter, Sarah Gioe, and her husband, Tim, a survivor of clergy abuse, the legislation addresses a critical gap in child protection.
Reflecting on the tragic case of Pat Wattigny, a former priest who pleaded guilty to molesting minors but evaded earlier consequences for inappropriate texting due to the lack of an anti-grooming law, advocates believe this new measure will prevent similar situations. Connick emphasized the law as a promise to Louisiana parents and guardians that such manipulation will not be tolerated.
Set to go into effect on August 1, the law stands to inspire other states lacking protective statutes. Tim Gioe expressed hope that this legislation could safeguard future generations from the trauma he and his family endured. With strong bipartisan support, the law highlights a critical commitment to child safety in Louisiana.
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