Legislation creating an affirmative defense for sexually exploited juveniles charged with prostitution and diverting them to intervention and child protective services by the state has been signed into law by Governor Chris Christie.
S-2599, sponsored by Senator Jennifer Beck (R- Monmouth), affirms that persons under the age of 18 cannot willingly consent to engaging in sexual solicitation and would require their treatment as victims in the eyes of the law. Senator Diane Allen (R- Burlington) is also a sponsor of the legislation.
“Treating juveniles who are the victims of sex trafficking or coerced into prostitution as offenders requires them to carry a criminal conviction with them for the rest of their lives,” Senator Beck said.. “These are victims, not criminals, and I am pleased not only that the Governor has signed this legislation, but that Attorney General Chiesa pledged to continue to fight human trafficking during his confirmation hearing in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee.”
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March 21, 2011
