VIRGINIA House Bill 268 was signed into law yesterday by Governor Glenn Youngkin recognizing that children who are victims of sex trafficking or sexual assault and subsequently commit a crime against their abuser should be provided with treatment and services tailored to address their trauma. Specifically, this bill would add a provision to the law that directs Courts to consider the trauma of child victims of sexual abuse or trafficking at a Circuit Court transfer hearing and prioritize that child receiving the appropriate treatment and services in Juvenile Court so they can be held accountable for their actions in a trauma-informed, age-appropriate manner.
“Human trafficking is a heartbreaking reality affecting Virginians — particularly women and girls,” said first lady Suzanne S. Youngkin in the news release. “Through awareness and education about this danger, coupled with robust law enforcement, we can create a safer and more just Commonwealth for all.”
Delegate Mike Cherry said in the news release, “Human trafficking is modern-day slavery. Full stop. With the Governor’s signature of House Bill 633, our Commonwealth takes an important step toward eradicating this vile crime. Local prosecutors anywhere in Virginia now have the ability to bring charges against those who prey on vulnerable populations and obtain speedy convictions as opposed to waiting years for the federal judicial process to play out.”
