In a strong move to protect children and hold predators accountable, the Tennessee General Assembly passed House Bill 973 on April 10, extending the statute of limitations for child sexual abuse crimes. The legislation, sponsored by State Rep. Jake McCalmon (R-Franklin), increases the time victims have to seek justice—from 25 to 30 years after their 18th birthday—for 24 specific child sex abuse offenses.
Calling the crimes “heinous,” McCalmon said: “The evil people responsible must be held accountable.” He emphasized the importance of giving victims a fair chance to come forward, adding, “Increasing the statute of limitations is a common-sense way to ensure victims receive the justice they deserve while getting some of the worst of mankind off our streets.”
The bill also expands the timeframe for civil lawsuits related to child sex abuse, further empowering survivors to seek justice through the courts. The legislation received unanimous support and is now headed to Governor Bill Lee’s deskfor signature.
If signed into law, the changes will go into effect starting July 1, 2025. The bill represents a clear stand for law and order, prioritizing the protection of children and ensuring justice is not denied due to arbitrary deadlines.
Earlier this year, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested 538 individuals in a nationwide operation, focusing on illegal aliens involved in crimes ranging from gang activity to child predators and terrorism. Among those apprehended were 373 individuals with criminal convictions and 165 non-criminal arrests, according to the Trump administration.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt noted that arrests included a suspected terrorist, four members of the Venezuelan Tren de Aragua gang, and numerous individuals convicted of sex crimes against minors. The suspected terrorist was identified as 29-year-old Turkish national Gokhan Adriguzel, arrested in New York for entry without inspection.
Gang-related arrests included Venezuelan national Yoswaldo Jose Mata-Ribi, apprehended by ICE San Antonio, and MS-13 member Juan Francisco Sanchez Contreras of El Salvador, detained in New York. ICE also lodged a detainer for Sanchez Contreras, who is under a final removal order.
