South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson is urging the prompt passage of S.74, a bill designed to expedite investigations into child sexual abuse material. Wilson, along with prominent legislators and sheriffs, gathered at the Statehouse to highlight the bill's importance.
Wilson, speaking with Senator Greg Hembree, Representative Travis Moore, and Sheriffs Carl Ritchie, Jay Koon, and Tony Breeden, expressed urgency regarding the protection of children. "Every day that passes without S.74 becoming law is another day we risk leaving children vulnerable and giving child predators a head start," he stated.
The current process, which requires the Attorney General’s Office to request subpoenas through the U.S. Attorney’s Office, can delay access to key electronic records. S.74 would permit the Attorney General to issue administrative subpoenas directly, thus expediting investigations, though judicial approval would still be required for search warrants.
"We’re talking about saving lives and preventing unimaginable harm," Wilson emphasized. He reassured that the bill is focused on removing bureaucratic hurdles, not compromising legal standards.
The Senate and House have each passed different versions of the bill. The coalition, including Senator Hembree and Representative Moore, is pressing for consensus on the Senate's version before the session concludes. Hembree noted the strong bipartisan support and the urgency of the matter: "Our children are counting on us."
Moore highlighted the necessity for law enforcement to remain equipped against technologically adept predators. He stated, "S.74 provides that, and we must finish the job."
Sheriffs in South Carolina supported the call for quicker access to electronic records, with Charleston County Sheriff Carl Ritchie warning against delays that could harm more children.
Attorney General Wilson urged the General Assembly to finalize the bill to ensure it reaches the Governor’s desk, emphasizing the ongoing effort: "The mission isn’t finished until this bill is on the Governor’s desk. Let’s get it done, for the children of South Carolina."