Madison, WI – Today, Northcentral Republican legislators circulated “Bradyn’s Law” for co-sponsorship in the State Legislature. Last month, our community tragically lost Bradyn Bohn, who at 15 years of age died by suicide as a victim of “sextortion”. Bradyn was a great brother, son, cousin, friend, and teammate who was widely loved by his community. Unfortunately, unbeknownst to those around him, Bradyn was the victim of a fairly new and pernicious crime called “sextortion”.
Representative Pat Snyder explained, “Since hearing of Bradyn’s passing I have been horrified to learn that sextortion crimes, often targeting underage boys, have been on the rise nationwide with an alarming number of deaths by suicide associated with the crime.”
“Bradyn’s story is a painful reminder of how quickly sextortion can turn from a hidden crime into a devastating loss,” said Senator Jesse James. “As a law enforcement officer, I see how these predators operate. These bad people use fear, shame, and isolation to manipulate their victims. We need Bradyn’s Law to make sure our legal system reflects the seriousness of this threat and to give officers and prosecutors the ability to act before it’s too late. Our top priority must be protecting our youth from those who seek to exploit them in the shadows.”
Senator Cory Tomczyk said, “Tragically, what happened to Bradyn takes place regularly all across the country. This time, it hit close to home and we lost a young member of our community. I hope this legislation makes a difference and holds those who extort vulnerable children accountable. I am honored to be part of this legislation in memory of Bradyn.”
Since Bradyn’s passing legislators have worked with his family and the State Department of Justice to craft legislation that would create new penalties for the crime of sextortion, allow those who cause death by suicide as part of a sextortion scheme to be charged with felony murder, and make a victim of sextortion or their family eligible for payment under the DOJ’s crime victim compensation fund.
“I am deeply saddened that Central Wisconsin lost a child so young who felt he was forced into an impossible choice by thugs,” said Representative Brent Jacobson. “This bill sends a message to those who would threaten or extort our children to stay out of Wisconsin, and it gives law enforcement and prosecutors new tools to bring justice to victims and families. I look forward to Bradyn’s Law gaining wide bipartisan support and being signed into law.”
“Tragically, we are losing innocent lives to predators who are manipulating and taking advantage of those most vulnerable.” Representative John Spiros said. “Society can do better. We must enact tough laws to stop these perpetrators and protect our children.”
This Legislation is named after Bradyn, with his family’s permission, with the hope of preventing future tragedies in Wisconsin. Additionally, this legislation is supported by Attorney General Josh Kaul. Please see the attached co-sponsorship memo and bill draft for additional details.
