The State Government of South Australia is taking decisive action against individuals exploiting children for criminal activities, with new legislation set to be introduced to State Parliament this week.
Under the proposed laws, perpetrators who recruit children to commit crimes could face severe penalties, including up to 15 years of imprisonment. If the offence committed by the recruited youth carries a higher maximum sentence, the perpetrator could face an even lengthier imprisonment term.
“Anyone who involves children in crime deserves to face the full force of the law,” Attorney-General, Kyam Maher, says.
“These laws would give South Australia the toughest penalties in the nation, sending a clear message that we will throw the book at anyone who tries to get a child to commit a serious crime.
“Ensuring the safety of the community is one of the top priorities of the State Government. This Government will do whatever is necessary to protect the community from criminal offending and safeguard the wellbeing of young South Australians.”
Currently, South Australia lacks a general offence provision specifically addressing adults who coerce children into criminal behaviour, highlighting a gap in the legal framework.
Should the legislation be passed, South Australia would establish itself as having the most stringent penalties nationwide for those who exploit children in this manner.
The proposed recruitment offence would be applicable in cases where a child is recruited to carry out a major indictable offence. If the offence the child is recruited for carries a maximum penalty exceeding 15 years, the perpetrator would face the higher of the two penalties.
Crucially, an adult can be prosecuted for the recruitment offence irrespective of whether the child ultimately participates in the criminal activity. And the child’s involvement or prosecution status for the criminal act does not impact the potential conviction of the adult recruiter.
More News
