SIOUX FALLS,S.D. (KELO AM) - Jolene’s Law Task Force is meeting today in Pierre continuing its examination of sexual abuse of children in South Dakota.
There was a suggestion that judges mandate restitution by perpetrators to fund Children’s Advocacy Centers for interviews and exams.
Hughes County State’s Attorney Wendy Kloeppner says she likes the idea but doesn’t think it’s practical.
Kloeppner says if the abuse is serious enough the defendant could go to the penitentiary where his earnings are a pittance. Even if the suspect gets out on parole there isn't enough money to make restitution let alone sustain the centers.
The Task Force will make recommendations to the South Dakota Legislature for laws strengthening prosecution of child abuse offenders.