Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) was recently recognized by Protect Mass Children for his years of advocacy in support of passing stronger state laws to protect children from sexual predators.
“Senator Tarr has worked to protect the community throughout his entire career; it is an honor to be able to recognize Senator Tarr for his sincere and longstanding commitment to protecting our children,” Joseph DiPietro, President of Protect Mass Children, stated. “In 2008, Senator Tarr was a strong voice and advocate for Massachusetts’ version of Jessica’s Law, and was instrumental in helping to pass minimum mandatory sentences for certain sex crimes against children. While there is still a good amount of work ahead to protect our children from such heinous acts, Senator Tarr has been a strong advocate for children and continues to be today.”
Senator Tarr recently filed legislation in a bipartisan effort calling for strong mandatory sentences for child predators and life sentences for repeat sex offenders. Commonly referred to as “three strikes you’re in,” Senate Bill 884 would:
• require individuals convicted of child rape to serve a minimum of 15 years in prison;
• require individuals convicted of child rape by use of force or during the commission of another crime to serve a minimum of 30 years; and
• require those convicted three or more times for sex offenses against children to be imprisoned for life, without any possibility of parole.
“Our organization is thrilled to stand behind a leader like Senator Tarr,” DiPietro said. “We are confident his bill will pass and make a significant difference for the safety of thousands of children. The public wants stronger laws to protect children, and Senate Bill 884 is a great tool for the Commonwealth to do just that.”
“I am truly honored to be recognized by Protect Mass Children,” said Senator Tarr. “Under Joseph DiPietro’s leadership, the organization’s dedicated staff has been working tirelessly to protect some of our most vulnerable residents from being sexually abused and exploited. Working together, I am confident we will be able to make significant changes to Massachusetts’ child predator and sex offender laws that will protect our children from these horrific crimes.”
Protect Mass Children is a nonprofit organization committed to protecting the children of Massachusetts from sexual predators through education and legislation. More information can be found at www.protectmasschildren.org.
Senator Tarr is shown above accepting the award from Protect Mass Children President and Co-Founder Joseph DiPietro (left) and Protect Mass Children Vice President John Magulas (right).
