Snyder’s Bill To Increase Sentence for
Sexual Abuse of A Ward of Federal Prison Passes as Part of the Children’s
Safety Act Washington - U.S. Representative Vic Snyder’s bill to increase the maximum number of years of a sentence for federal prison employees who engage in sexual contact with wards has passed the U.S. House of Representatives. Congressman Snyder’s bill passed as part of HR 3132, the Children's Safety Act of 2005. “A law to increase the maximum sentencing was necessary to act as a deterrent for sexual contact between federal prison employees and inmates,” Congressman Snyder said. “Many inmates are less likely to come forward about abuse because they know the punishment only amounts to a misdemeanor, and is often dismissed by prosecutors. I hope that the increase in maximum sentencing from one to five years will help ensure better security of federal prison inmates, and employees.” Current federal law is more lenient than most state laws. Under current federal law, a person found guilty of sexual abuse of a ward would only receive a maximum of one year in prison. Consequently, the crime is oftentimes not prosecuted. According to the Department of Justice (DOJ), fewer than half of such abuses have resulted in criminal cases against prison employees in the last five years. Congressman Snyder’s bill amends section 2243(b) of title 18, United States Code by increasing the maximum sentencing from one to five years. According to experts at the Department of Justice, sexual abuse can weaken prison security by corrupting staff and increasing inmate rivalry. Prison employees who engage in sex with inmates are more likely to smuggle in drugs, weapons and other items, and then alert inmates to unannounced searches, according to DOJ inspectors. -30- |