In memory of Erin Maxwell, an 11-year-old girl from Oswego County who tragically lost her life on August 29, 2008. She was found fatally injured in her home and later succumbed to her injuries at University Hospital. The Onondaga County Medical Examiner confirmed that Erin died of asphyxiation and suffered sexual trauma. This heartbreaking incident underscores the urgent need for legislation aimed at protecting our children from such heinous crimes.

Erin's Law, named after Erin Maxwell, seeks to establish the class A-I felony of aggravated murder of a child, carrying a sentence of life imprisonment without parole. This law is crucial in addressing cases where children under the age of 14 fall victim to intentional killings during the commission of heinous acts such as rape, criminal sexual acts, aggravated sexual abuse, or incest. Additionally, it covers instances of depraved indifference or intentional killing of a child under 14 by individuals legally responsible for their care.

NY State Senate Bill 2009-S1510 (nysenate.gov)

The passage of Erin's Law is not just about legal repercussions; it is about sending a clear message that our society will not tolerate violence against our most vulnerable members. It is about ensuring that perpetrators of such heinous crimes are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law and that justice is served for the innocent lives lost.

By repealing provisions of murder in the second degree that mirror certain aspects of aggravated murder of a child, Erin's Law closes critical loopholes and strengthens our legal framework to protect children from harm.

Oswego County Department of Social Services made three visits to the
Erin's home. The final visit was in 2006. Caseworkers determined that
no problems existed in her home and that the amount of care
given to Erin was adequate.  The system failed Erin Maxwell and led to her very sad and untimely death. This legislation amends the Social Services Law to require law enforcement personnel to accompany child protective investigators to a child's home when two or more reports have been received by a county Department of Social Services within six months.

Through a number of steps, Erin's Law will help to see that no child in this state is ever forced to
exist in conditions similar to Erin's. This legislation increases the
penalties for those who commit certain crimes against children,
requires better records of calls made alleging child abuse and
neglect, enhances the penalties for those who fail to report child
abuse or maltreatment on multiple occasions, and updates the
definition of "neglected child" to better serve the interests of New
York State's most vulnerable children.

I urge you to consider this important legislation and to lend your support to its passage. Our children deserve nothing less than the strongest protections under the law, and Erin's Law is a crucial step in achieving this goal. 

In honor of Erin Maxwell and all other victims of child sexual abuse, we implore you - our elected officials - not just hear this plea but act upon it swiftly by passing this vital law. Help us ensure that no other child has to suffer like Erin did; help us make Central New York safer for every single one of its young residents.

Please sign this petition today; demand the passage of Erin's Law now!