We Need To Pass Sara's Law

Nina DeJonghe, ECPAT-USA’s Director of Public Policy, recently testified before the Maryland House of Delegates Judiciary Committee in support of House Bill 754, legislation that would reform juvenile sentencing. This bill is similar to legislation U.S. Representatives Bruce Westerman, Karen Bass, David Trone and Tony Cardenas recently introduced, the Sara’s Law and the Preventing Unfair Sentencing Act.

Trafficking survivor Sara Kruzan inspired both pieces of legislation. Sara was 11 when she was first exploited and subjected to years of endless sexual abuse and violence. Although she was only 16 at the time, she was tried as an adult and convicted to life in prison for killing her trafficker and served 20 years until the state commuted her sentence in 2013.

The judicial system currently penalizes minors who have been exploited and trafficked, convicting them without considering the horrific circumstances they endured.

There are two core components of HB 754 that will significantly impact outcomes for children in the criminal justice system. ​First, this bill would require judges to consider adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), trauma, and other mitigating factors when sentencing youth convicted in adult court. This provision is critical - the majority of children in the justice system have experienced trauma, including physical, emotional and sexual abuse, neglect, or living with a family member who suffers from substance abuse or mental health issues.

Second, the bill allows judges to send cases involving child sex trafficking victims being tried as adults back to juvenile court.

Our legal system’s inability to view these children as victims prevents it from being able to adequately serve them, signaling vulnerable youth aren’t deserving of care, protection and more importantly, their rights. Treating children in a trauma-informed and age-appropriate manner is critical to their psychological and physiological well-being. It is incumbent upon advocates to ensure children have access to necessary resources.

HB 754, and companion SB 769, is at risk of stalling in the Maryland State House. Please help us protect child trafficking victims by contacting Chairman Clippinger and Chairman Smith and urging them to prioritize this legislation. Additionally, you can follow our partners at Human Rights for Kids to learn more about how you can get directly involved.

Watch the full hearing on Maryland House Bill 754