Manley Introduces Legislation to Close Loophole, Protect Community from Dangerous Criminals

JOLIET, Ill. – Responding to concerns from constituents, state Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, recently filed legislation to make a person convicted of battery to register as a sex offender if the attack was sexually motivated.

“The state requires people to register as sex offenders when past actions indicate that they pose a danger to members of our community,” Manley said. “If someone is found guilty of a crime and prosecutors proved that the crime was sexually motivated, that person should be required to register as a sex offender. This legislation simply closes a loophole in the law to protect victims and our neighbors.”

The legislation was brought to Manley from a local family whose daughter was the victim of a violent crime that was sexually motivated. House Bill 816, known as “Stephanie’s Law” after the victim, will require any person convicted of battery in such a case to register with the state as a sex offender. Prosecutors will be responsible for proving that the crime was sexually motivated during the trial.

“After the family talked to me, other lawmakers and state’s attorneys, we all came together to address this issue in Springfield,” Manley said. “At a time when it seems like no one in Springfield can work together to get something accomplished, this is a good example of what we can try to accomplish if we work together.”

For more information, please contact Manley’s constituent service office at 815-725-2741 or RepManley@gmail.com.