NCJ Number
173687
Date Published
1996
Length
46 pages
Annotation
This is a report to Congress of the United States Sentencing Commission's Findings and Recommendations Regarding Federal Penalties for Sex Offenses Against Children.
Abstract
Penalties for sex offenses against children have been increased several times in recent years and are quite severe. Nevertheless, some amendments may be appropriate to increase sentences for the most dangerous offenders, ensure consistency in sentencing, and clarify certain provisions that have been improperly implemented and used. A significant portion of child pornography offenders have a criminal history that involves the sexual abuse or exploitation of children and those with such histories are at greater risk of recidivism. The Commission significantly increased sentences for some child pornography offenses and considered increases for other pornography and sexual abuse offenses. In addition, the Commission recommended that Congress increase certain statutory maximum penalties so that the guideline amendments designed to increase sentences are allowed to operate to their full extent without being capped by existing statutory limits. Table, notes