Zimmerman: Justice for Sex Crime Victims Shouldn't Have an Expiration Date

His legislation would remove the statute of limitations so that prosecutors can pursue charges at any time for child sex crimes.

INDIANAPOLIS - In Indiana, child sexual assault survivors are up against the clock when it comes to pursuing justice against their abusers. That's because they only have until their 31^st birthday to bring charges due to Indiana's statute of limitations. It's time for change.

Unfortunately, children do not often report sexual abuse for a variety of reasons like fear and shame, or they're simply unaware they're a victim until they’ve reached adulthood. Many times, survivors come forward decades after the abuse occurred. For example, late last year a Brownstown, Indiana man was arrested on charges of child molesting, incest and vicarious sexual gratification for alleged contact with an underage victim that started 22 years ago and lasted 11 years.

Obtaining justice for victims often takes time, especially in sex crime cases. So why do we have a statute of limitations? In the past, video recordings and DNA testing did not yet exist or weren't commonly used in investigations. Prosecutors also had to rely more heavily on witness testimony, which can be unreliable after many years have passed.  Now, especially with advances in technology, cases that were cold for decades can be revived and justice can be served.

My legislation would remove the statute of limitations so that prosecutors can pursue charges at any time for child molestation, vicarious sexual gratification, child solicitation, child seduction, and sexual misconduct with a minor and incest. That means these victims of abuse can seek justice no matter when they chose to come forward.

These crimes are among some of the worst someone could commit in Indiana as categorized as Level 1 and Level 2 felonies, which could bring 20 to 40 years imprisonment and a fine up to $10,000. These are serious crimes and criminals shouldn't avoid punishment just because of the passing of time.

Justice for sex crime victims should not have an expiration date and I believe Indiana needs to remove the statute of limitations on certain sex crimes in Indiana. The bill has been assigned to the House Committee on Courts and Criminal Code, and I'm committed to pursuing this needed change and stepping up for child sexual assault survivors. To learn more about legislation, and watch session and committee meetings, visit iga.in.gov. To contact me with questions or comments, email h67@iga.in.gov or call 317-232-9643.