Overview
- The new law, 2025 Wisconsin Act 88, creates a standalone offense that defines grooming as a pattern of conduct intended to condition, lure, or entice a child for sexual activity or sexual depictions.
- Grooming is now a felony with higher penalties when the offender holds a position of trust, targets multiple victims, or victimizes a child with disabilities, and a child's consent cannot be used as a defense.
- Victims gain more time to seek prosecution, with the statute of limitations extended until they turn 45.
- News outlets report differing maximum prison terms for a grooming conviction, with some citing up to 10 years and others reporting 10 to 25 years.
- Sponsors and advocates point to a Kenosha teacher case involving Christian Enright as a key impetus for the legislation, which advanced with bipartisan support.