SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) - A South Dakota senator is proposing a bill that would eliminate the statute of limitations for rape cases in the state.
Republican state Sen. Mark Johnston of Sioux Falls says rape is one of the most vile things a human being can do to another person and says there should be no limit for prosecuting the crime.
Currently, South Dakota prosecutors can only charge a suspect in a rape case up to seven years after the crime was committed or until the victim is 25, whichever is longer.
Senate Bill 68 is inspired by Johnston's friend, 33-year-old Jolene Loetscher.
The Sioux Falls woman says she was raped as a teenager in Nebraska.
She recently learned she was unable to press charges because of the statute of limitations.
Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.
