Bill Would Keep Inmates From Changing Names

* Recently, the Los Angeles Times reported on the impending parole of convicted child molester Kyle Hochstraser (“Convicted Molester Freed on Parole,” Aug. 18). As many of your readers know, Mr. Hochstraser legally changed his name while he was an inmate. However, allowing inmates to legally change their names has resulted in numerous instances of harassment. Your readers deserve an update on how the state Legislature is addressing this problem.

Over a year ago, I participated in a special hearing of the state Assembly’s Committee on Public Safety which addressed this very issue. As I listened to victims testify about being harassed by prisoners who legally changed their name, I felt compelled to find a solution. Therefore I introduced Assembly Bill 2782, a measure that would prohibit a person who is incarcerated in state prison from legally changing his or her name. Just this week this bill was overwhelmingly approved by the state Assembly and Senate. I expect this bill to be signed into law by Gov. Pete Wilson in the very near future.

Allowing an inmate to repeatedly harass law-abiding citizens is outrageous. Victims should not be forced to be victims for a second time and child molesters and other criminals should not be allowed to hide behind a new identity. This simple measure will prevent any future examples of outrageous inmate harassment.

PAULA L. BOLAND

California State Assembly

38th District