Legislative Efforts

Shortly after Dixie's death, as the family was going through preparations for the upcoming trial of her killer, it came to light how inadequate the law in Pennsylvania was in regards to child homicides.

As a result I started to do some research into how other states treat accused child killers. The one state that stood out head and shoulders above the rest was South Carolina. Faced with a growing number of child homicides, they enacted a law that not only carried a penalty of 20 years to life it also provided Prosecutors with a valuable tool. It removed intent from the picture entirely. No longer could a person accused of killing a child use the defense; "I didn't mean for it to happen". Best of all, the law worked. In the first year it was in effect, it cut the rate of child homicide in half!

Armed with this information I contacted my Local State Representative, Katie True. She listened to my story, and looked at the research and statistics. She agreed that it was the right thing to do. With her guidance and support I began the long journey to try and make new law.

On September 9, 2004 a meeting was held at the Comfort Inn, Centerville Road in Lancaster. It was hosted by State Representative Katie True and invited guests included representatives from the District Attorney's office, the Victim/Witness Program, police departments, and most of the local county Legislators. There were also several family members of victims present.

The purpose of the meeting was twofold. First it was intended to focus on the problem of child homicide itself, and the alarming rise in the number of children lost this past year. Secondly it was to introduce the law that is in effect in South Carolina, and to gauge support for drafting similar legislation here in Pennsylvania.

There was much discussion from all those present. After review of the SC law and discussion of its application, all in attendance agreed that it would be worthwhile pursuing. Katie True has committed to getting a bill drafted by the end of the upcoming legislative session. She will also work on an amendment that could be attached to a bill already in the system. She is a member of the House Judiciary Committee and will be bringing it up in a meeting of that body within the next couple of weeks.

Surprisingly, there were no objections to the bill from anyone present. I received the endorsement and support of everyone. Needless to say, I am extremely gratified by this and glad that the first step in what will be a long process was so successful.