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Proposition AZ 313 would affect the sentencing of child sex trafficking cases

Online Niel November 5, 2024

If approved by voters, Proposition 313 would impose life sentences on anyone convicted of child sex trafficking in Arizona, eliminating judicial discretion that currently allows for a sentence ranging from seven years to life, depending on the case.

Supporters of the measure, referred to voters by the Legislature, argued that discretion in sentencing would lead to shorter prison terms and that life sentences would have a deterrent effect.

“We see this as a clear message that Arizona will not tolerate child sex trafficking,” said Yavapai County Sheriff David Rhodes, a supporter of the measure. “The severity of these sentences reflects our commitment to protecting children.”

Opponents of Proposition 313 said the measure would end up harming the very people it was intended to protect. Victims of sex trafficking are often forced to participate in the prostitution of others, said Jenna Panas, CEO of the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence.

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“It is common for victims of sex trafficking to be forced or coerced into trafficking other people, and we are absolutely certain that the victims will be sentenced to life in prison for the actions they were forced to take,” Panas said.

Critics also argue that the focus on punishment overlooks critical aspects of child sex trafficking prevention, such as disrupting trafficking networks, protecting vulnerable populations, and increasing surveillance.

Tracking child sex trafficking cases nationally is challenging due to under-reporting. But federal prosecutions of child-only sex trafficking cases rose 17 percent from 2019 to 2020, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

One reason for the increase in cases is partly because people have been more willing to come forward because more attention and care has been given to the problem, said David Finkelhor of the Crimes Against Children Research Center.

He argued for a greater focus on preventing child sex crimes and said increasing the likelihood of catching people would be more effective in deterring child sex traffickers than increasing punishment.

This story will be updated as election results are reported.

Contact the reporter at [email protected].