Law Protects Children From Online Predators

Senator Jim Wilson says Oklahoma's children will be better protected from Internet predators now that the "SafeNet Act" is in effect in the state. The new law created through Senate Bill 1479, by Senator Wilson and Rep. Purcy Walker, became immediately effective after receiving approval from the Governor Monday morning.

"This new law will help our law enforcement officials find and stop Internet predators before they can hurt any more children," said Wilson, D-Tahlequah. "The best thing about the SafeNet Act is that it focuses on prevention, not just punishment. By educating our citizens about the dangers of Internet predators, we can help prevent future tragedies and keep our children safe."

The new law makes it illegal for an individual to facilitate, encourage, offer or solicit sexual conduct with a minor through communications using a wide range of technologies including the Internet, computers, telephones, cellular phones, video or audio equipment, or any other kind of electronic device. Online sex offenders will now be charged with a felony and up to five years in prison with each communication constituting a separate offense.

An Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) unit will be created under the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation to investigate Internet crimes committed against children, including, but not limited to, offenses related to child pornography or solicitation of minors for pornography and prostitution.

“According to statistics, one in five children who use computer chat rooms have been approached by pedophiles. We needed to address the problem of high-tech predators,” said Walker, D-Elk City. “The 'SafeNet Act' will help us stop these criminals before they victimize innocent children.”