TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) State officials say they are working with law enforcement on legislation designed to reduce sex trafficking of teenagers and increase penalties for those who entice the children into the industry.
A Kansas Department for Children and Families official said Wednesday the legislation will emphasize that children in the sex trade are victims, not criminals.
Anna Pilato, a deputy secretary in the department, told child care workers in Wichita that Attorney General Derek Schmidt’s office, law enforcement agencies and judges are collaborating on the legislation.
The Wichita Eagle reports DCF’s role will be to ensure the minors involved in the sex industry get the help they need. The agency also is working to determine the scope of the problem in Kansas.
