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The Honolulu Advertiser
Updated at 3:30 p.m., Friday, May 16, 2008

Tougher Hawaii law in place for luring minors online

Advertiser Staff

People who entice children for sex via the Internet will face 10-year prison sentences without probation under a bill signed into law today by Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona.

The law, which also updates the state's sex offender registry, is meant to deter people from using the Internet to lure minors for sex.

Lawmakers agreed to the tougher penalties after law enforcement officials complained that people convicted of electronic enticement were only receiving probation or minimal prison time.

Aiona also signed a second bill into law today that creates a third-degree felony for people who allow minors to ingest illegal drugs. The law is in response to children exposed to crystal methamphetamine at makeshift laboratories.

Aiona is acting governor while Gov. Linda Lingle is on trip to Israel.