New law lifts time limit to prosecute sex criminals

Victims of sexual crimes will now have the courage to speak out about their experience after the signing of a new law that now allows the prosecution at any time of criminals who commit sex rimes against persons under the age of 18.

Acting governor Victor B. Hocog signed House Bill 19-185 last Thursday at the Governor’s Office conference room on Capitol Hill. HB 19-185 is now Public Law 19-72.

PL 19-72 amends 6 CMC 107, lifting the statute of limitations on sexual crimes committed against those below 18 years old. It now allows the prosecution to commence any time for sex crimes committed against persons under the age of 18. Rep. Ramon A. Tebuteb (Ind-Saipan) introduced the bill with fellow independent lawmakers Roman C. Benavente, Lorenzo I. Deleon Guerrero, Edwin K. Propst, and Vinson F. Sablan, and GOP’s George N. Camacho.

“Like many legislations there are processes. And during those processes one of them is based on information so that we are well versed in what kind of policy we are making. It took me two years based on the compelling information and data my office received,” said Tebuteb.

Tebuteb added there is a feeling of fear for the victims in coming out to speak of what they have experienced.

“We must understand the situation of the victim, even more especially the family and the community. I’m also encouraging those victims that remain silent to please come out. We have a support system; there are very dedicated people in the community who are here to support you.”

He said removing the time limits would greatly benefit the victim. “Removing the time limitation will benefit the victims for it would give them the opportunity to build their confidence and report such incidents regardless of age and duration of the alleged incident, knowing the prosecution can begin anytime regardless of time duration.”

The amendment made is the time limitation for prosecution to begin. PL 19-72 states sexual crimes—whether it involves sexual contact, physical or sexual abuse, exhibitionism or sexual exploitation—committed against a victim under 18 years old can now be prosecuted at any time.
“Except as otherwise provided in this section, prosecution for offenses other than traffic offenses are subject to the following time limitations:

(1) A prosecution for an offense, which is punishable by imprisonment for five years or more must be commenced within four years after it is committed.

(2) A prosecution for an offense, which is punishable by imprisonment for six months or less or by a fine only must be commenced within one year after it is committed.

(3) A prosecution for any other offense must be commenced within two years after it is committed.