Our son, a bright and loving child living with autism, endured a horrifying incident at Congin Elementary School in Westbrook, Maine. He was assaulted by an educational technician (Ed tech) at the school—a person entrusted with his care and well-being. The trauma and emotional distress this event has caused is profound and enduring. Despite this grave incident, the Ed tech was charged only with simple assault because our son was just six years old. Had he been five, the charge would have been a felony, which starkly highlights a troubling gap in Maine's legal framework.

Under current Maine law, the penalty for assaulting a child hinges on whether the child is five years old or younger. This arbitrary age cut-off fails to protect children aged six to thirteen, as it reduces the severity of the charge from felony to simple assault. Such assaults, especially against vulnerable children like our son, warrant stronger penalties to truly uphold justice and deter future abuses.

Children with developmental disabilities, like autism, are particularly vulnerable to mistreatment and unable to fully defend themselves. Our son’s case represents not only a call for justice on his behalf but for all children in Maine. It's vital we address this oversight in the law to ensure that every child has the right to learn in a safe and supportive environment.

Changing the law to classify assaults against children aged six to thirteen as a felony can provide the justice they deserve and potentially deter those who might otherwise think such actions have minimal consequences. It's time for the state of Maine to demonstrate its commitment to child safety and protection.

We urge lawmakers in Maine to revise the current assault law so that it recognizes the need for stringent protection for all children. We implore you to support this petition to enact a change that reflects the value we place on the safety and well-being of every child in our community.

Sign this petition to advocate for stronger assault laws affecting children, and help create a safer environment for every child in Maine. Children are our future!