Child Molester Laws Panned

Advocates: Tougher Statutes, Enforcement, More Education Needed

(CBS)  "Predators are a population that are sophisticated. And they will exploit again and again and again," he points out. "And we should not allow that opportunity. Secondly, (we need) aggressive prosecution and investigation. And thirdly, (we have to have more) education and efforts to ensure the safety of our children in their communities."

Runnion agreed, adding, "The major weapon that we have is awareness and communication with our children. The first step is to learn more about child molesters, more about how we can better protect our children. …Be aware that 95 percent of all children who are sexually abused know their predator. They know and trust the person who hurts them."

She started The Joyful Child Foundation "to raise awareness in every house across this country so that we can better protect our children."

Kline noted, "All too often the predator, such as Mr. Duncan, who is accused of this most recent crime, has acted out before and society has let them have a pass or back out on the streets. Statistics and information will demonstrate to that you those who prey upon children will act again. The Department of Justice estimates that the average pedophile commits 16 offenses while on probation.

"And many times these children are a silent victim in that they do not know where they can achieve help, how to speak out. And we have to be ready to hear that silent cry as they face victimization again by not allowing it, and keeping predators behind bars."

Kline gave an example of inconsistent penalties: "In Texas, if you commit a second offense, you won't see the light of day again. In Kansas, we had a 28-year-old man rape a 6-year-old boy, videotape it, place it on the Internet, and receive probation.

"This is unacceptable. We need to strengthen those penalties nationwide."