MADISON, WI – This morning, State Representative Brent Jacobson (R – Mosinee) and Senator Jesse James (R – Thorp) introduced legislation to expand on 2025 WI Act 48 (Bradyn’s Law), giving victims of sexual extortion another tool for justice.
“Last month, Wisconsin took a major step forward by officially criminalizing sexual extortion,” said Rep. Jacobson. “The legislation I introduced today builds on that victory, allowing victims to sue these predators civilly for the damage they have caused.”
Bradyn’s Law created the felony crime of sexual extortion, with penalty enhancers if the victim is a minor or is harmed or dies as a result. The legislation introduced today by Rep. Jacobson and Sen. James would create a civil cause of action for victims of sexual extortion or their family. Under this bill, a victim or their personal representative could file a lawsuit to recover damages for injury, emotional distress, or loss of property against the person who targeted them with sexual extortion. Additionally, this bill would allow parents or representatives of a victim who took their own life as a result of sexual extortion to file a wrongful death suit. This legislation is currently being circulated for cosponsors.
“The tragic death of Bradyn Bohn was a wakeup call for the devastating impact sexual extortion has on victims, their families, and their community,” said Rep. Jacobson. “This bill will give Wisconsinites another tool to fight this heinous crime, and ensure victims receive justice. As we approach the first anniversary of Bradyn’s passing, I remain more committed than ever to protecting the young people of our state from the online exploitation which cost Bradyn his life.”
