Tougher Sex Crime Sentences Sought

Perpetrators of sex crimes against children would face longer prison sentences, including the possibility of life behind bars, under a bill approved by the House Judiciary Committee. The measure goes to the House for a vote. The legislation would double to 10 years in prison the penalty for enticing a minor to cross state lines to engage in illegal sexual activity. Anyone using the mail, Internet or other means to contact a minor for sexual activity could go to prison for up to five years. The bill would also mandate life imprisonment for anyone convicted of a sexual offense that causes the death of someone under age 14, unless the death penalty has been imposed.