Jun 12, 2024 By Brad Hundt 3 min read

State Rep. Jason Ortiay and state Sen. Devlin Robinson are spearheading legislation that would help create state and local task forces to fight internet crimes against children.

Called “Alicia’s Law” after Alicia Kozak, who was abducted from her Pittsburgh home 22 years ago by an internet predator, both the House and Senate bills would initiate a process that would lead to the establishment of state and local task forces that would combat internet crimes against children. The task forces would supplement the federal task force that focuses on internet crimes against children.

Ortitay, Robinson and state Rep. Jessica Benham, another sponsor of the House bill, discussed the proposed legislation at a Harrisburg press conference Monday where they were joined by Kozak, who has become an advocate for internet safety in the years since she was abducted.

“As a survivor of abduction and exploitation, I know firsthand the critical importance of having dedicated resources to combat these heinous crimes,” Kozak said.

Kozak’s case attracted national attention when she was abducted at age 13 after corresponding with the perpetrator online. Kozak was chained and held captive in a dungeon in Virginia, and the abuse she endured was live streamed. She was ultimately rescued after a tipster contacted the FBI. She has since become a motivational speaker, and has shared her story on “Good Morning America,” “The Oprah Winfrey Show” and many other outlets.

Kozak explained that the technology and tactics used by predators have changed over the last two decades, “and we must ensure those in this fight are best-equipped to do their work in this ever-evolving, tech-based world.”

“Since the horrendous events Alicia endured, internet crimes against children have exploded, partially due to the proliferation of social media apps and smartphone usage,” Ortitay said. “As the father of a preschool daughter, we need to send a message to perpetrators that they cannot hide online. We will find you and prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law.”

Robinson said, “As we navigate the complexities of the digital age, it’s imperative that our law enforcement agencies have the necessary resources to address the alarming rise of internet crimes against children.”

Alicia’s Law has already been approved in a handful of states, including Texas, California and Virginia. The Pennsylvania bills have been referred to the judiciary committees in the state House and Senate.

Ortitay represents the 46th Legislative District, which includes Cecil and South Fayette townships, the boroughs of Canonsburg and McDonald, and other communities. Robinson represents the 37th Senatorial District, which encompasses a portion of southern Allegheny County and includes Bethel Park, South Park, Upper St. Clair and South Fayette.