Dear Representatives Nehls and Dean,
I am writing on behalf of the members of the Fraternal Order of Police to advise you of our support for H.R. 2735, the “Strengthening Child Exploitation Enforcement Act.”
Your legislation would close existing loopholes in Federal child abuse criminal statutes (18 U.S.C. § 1201, 2241(c), 2244, and 2423) as it pertains to kidnapping, international travel, sexual contact, and attempt liability. The closure of these loopholes, vetted by the U.S. Department of Justice, comes as a result of its recommendations made in the National Strategy for Child Exploitation Prevention and Interdiction.
It is crucial that the legal system provides stronger safeguards for our most vulnerable in order to ensure their safety and welfare. This bill passed out of Senate last Congress by unanimous consent, and we look forward to getting this bill across the finish line this time around.
On behalf of the more than 377,000 members of the Fraternal Order of Police, I thank you both for your leadership on this issue. If I can be of any further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me or Executive Director Jim Pasco in our Washington, D.C. office.
Sincerely,
Patrick Yoes
National President