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PS 1014

“Para añadir un nuevo Artículo 136-A de la Ley 146-2012, según enmendada, conocida como “Código Penal de Puerto Rico”, a los fines de tipificar como modalidad agravada el delito de exposición obscena cuando se cometa en presencia de un menor de dieciocho (18) años o menos, estableciendo para dicha conducta una pena de reclusión por un término no menor de un (1) año, ni mayor de tres (3), a discreción del tribunal; y para otros fines relacionados.”

2025-2028 Session

Puerto Rico criminalizes indecent exposure before minors as aggravated offense with 1-3 year mandatory prison sentences to enhance child protection.

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Bill Summary · PS 1014

Legislative bill overview

Bill PS 1014 proposes adding a new section to Puerto Rico's Penal Code (Law 146-2012) that creates an aggravated criminal offense for indecent exposure when committed in the presence of minors under 18 years old. The offense would carry a mandatory minimum prison sentence of one year and a maximum of three years at the court's discretion.

Why is this important

This legislation directly addresses child protection by specifically penalizing indecent exposure in front of minors more severely than general indecent exposure charges. It reflects a legislative priority to deter sexual misconduct involving children and provides courts with explicit sentencing guidelines for this specific harmful conduct.

Potential points of contention

  • Definitional clarity: The bill does not specify what constitutes "obscene exposure" or how intent/recklessness distinctions are determined, potentially creating enforcement inconsistencies
  • Mandatory minimums: The one-year floor removes judicial discretion for cases involving technical violations or borderline circumstances, which some argue limits proportionality in sentencing
  • Procedural burden: The bill may increase prosecution caseloads without addressing investigative or prosecutorial resource requirements in Puerto Rico's justice system

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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