June 16, 2009

Congressman Ted Poe (TX-02) will join the Children's Assessment Center and federal, state, and local law enforcement to announce the "Protecting America's Children Act." This legislation aims to provide protection against the pre-trial release of an individual charged with a sexual offense against a minor who presents a flight risk or danger to society.

"Sexual offenses against children are among the most heinous crimes committed in our society," said Congressman Poe. "Moreover, statistics show that child sexual predators often have multiple victims and continue to commit sexual offenses after their release from incarceration. We must not only ensure that those who perpetrate these crimes are swiftly and vigorously prosecuted, but must also prevent dangerous sex offenders from victimizing other children while awaiting trial."

On Monday, Congressman Poe was joined by Elaine Stolte, Director, Children's Assessment Center; Harris County Sheriff Adrian Garcia; HPD Assistant Chief Michael Durbin; Assistant US Attorney Brit Featherston, Eastern District of Texas; Gary Blankinship, President, Houston Police Officers Union; John Donovan, Harris County Judge Emmett's Office; and Amy Smith, Houston Crime Stoppers at a press conference to announce this important legislation.

H.R. 2674 - Protecting America's Children Act of 2009:Prior to serving in Congress, Congressman Poe served as a prosecutor and judge in Harris County for 30 years. Judge Poe was recognized nationally for his creative punishment of criminals or "Poetic Justice." Congressman Poe is the founder and co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Victims' Rights Caucus in Washington, DC advocating on behalf of victims in our nation's capitol. Congressman Poe is a life-long advocate and supporter of victims, children and law enforcement issues and serves on the board of the Children's Assessment Center in Houston, Texas.