Protecting our Children Part l

by Mere Davis 

For many, it seems like a fairy tale--having children and watching them grow. but soon a fairy tale may become a nightmare when questions of "what if" come to mind. "What if I can't protect my child--what if someone hurts them?" The sad truth is, many people don't get to watch their children grow. Several children are victims of acts of pedophilia--which often ends in death. To kill a child? For most of us it's unfathomable. But the reality is, those who do not have a voice will always be an easy target for evil. So how do we protect our children from the act of pedophiles? Surely we can't be with them every minute of every day. What are laws that protect our children? And, are they enough?

MEGAN'S LAW: Megan Kanka was a 7 year old girl who went to her quiet neighbors house to see his puppy. After being raped and killed by the two time sex offender Jesse Timmendequas, Megan's parents, and several other caregivers of children who were harmed by sexual predators have said, they wouldn't have allowed their children to walk freely. Nor would they have moved into a neighborhood where a convicted sex offender lived. Despite their grief, Megan's parents went on a mission to ensure she did not die in vain-- by introducing and succeeding the passage of the most powerful and well known child protection law, Megan's law. THE PASSAGE: Governor Tom Ridge signed Act 24 of 1995 into law. In April 1996 the law went into effect. Megan's law is now active in every state, and in several parts of the world. Although each states law differs a little, the Law has protected many lives. THE LAW ENSURES: All convicted sex offenders to register on a list made known to the public Several convicted sex offenders tend to move often, the website continues to update their sex offenders information. Pennsylvania is now offering a notification system for sex offenders. Just like receiving a text message--people can receive updates on sex offenders locations, and further crimes. MEGAN'S LAW WEBSITE FEATURES: Tips on ways to protect your children. A way for parents to communicate with other caregivers on concerns and thoughts regarding child protection. Is a tool for people to be aware of children's rights--and have a better understanding of child protection laws. Right now the law SORNA which is a part of the"Adam's Walsh Child Protection And Safety Act" is being introduced into Pennsylvania. Although it will take months to pass SORNA ( Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act,) there are heavy debates as to if this law will actually enhance Megan's law, or just be a harsher form of punishment for sex offenders? Uniontown Office: 107 East Main St. Uniontown, PA 15401 Phone: 724.437.2799 Brownsville Office: 113 Thorton Road Brownsville, PA Phone: 724.785.7733