Erin's Angels of CNY Commemorates Child Abuse Awareness Month by Advocating for the passage of Erin’s Law in New York State

Phoenix, NY (April 1, 2025) – Each year, National Child Abuse Awareness Month is acknowledged throughout the month of April. National Child Abuse Prevention Month recognizes the importance of families and communities working together to prevent child abuse and neglect. This year's theme, ‘Building a Hopeful Future: Preventing Child Abuse Together,’ underscores the importance of community partnerships in creating safe and nurturing environments for all children.

In an effort to keep children in New York state safe, Phoenix, NY based non-profit organization Erin’s Angels, is leading an effort for the passage of NY State Senate Bill 2009-S1510 also known as Erin’s Law. Named in memory of Erin Maxwell, an 11-year-old girl from Oswego County who tragically lost her life on August 29, 2008, the bill seeks to establish the class A-I felony of aggravated murder of a child, carrying a sentence of life imprisonment without parole.

“Erin was found fatally injured in her home and later succumbed to her injuries at Universal Hospital. This law is crucial in addressing cases where children under the age of 14 fall victim to intentional killings during the commission of heinous acts such as rape, criminal sexual acts, aggravated sexual abuse, or incest. Additionally, it covers instances of depraved indifference or intentional killing of a child under 14 by individuals legally responsible for their care,” stated Sheila Dion, Erin’s Angels Founder and Executive Director.

Every day, countless children across New York are at risk due to gaps in child protection laws. NY State Senate Bill 2009-S1510 was originally introduced following Erin Maxwell’s tragic death when she was just 11 years old but was never passed. As a result, Erin’s Angels has formed an Advocacy Committee, dedicated to pushing for the re-introduction of the bill in remembrance of Erin Maxwell. To help support the passage of Erin’s Law, a Change.org petition has been created to advocate New York State law makers to take action.

“The passage of Erin's Law is not just about legal repercussions; it is about sending a clear message that our society will not tolerate violence against our most vulnerable members. It is about ensuring that perpetrators of such heinous crimes are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law and that justice is served for the innocent lost lives. Whether it’s by signing the petition or contacting elected officials, every action makes a difference,” stated Jackie Flint, Erin’s Angel’s Board of Directors President and Advocacy Committee Chairperson.  

By repealing provisions of murder in the second degree that mirror certain aspects of aggravated murder of a child, Erin's Law closes critical loopholes and strengthens the legal framework to protect children from harm. This legislation increases the penalties for those who commit certain crimes against children,

requires better records of calls made alleging child abuse and neglect, enhances the penalties for those who fail to report child abuse or maltreatment on multiple occasions, and updates the definition of "neglected child" to better serve the interests of New York State's most vulnerable children.

For more information about Erin's Angels of CNY or how to support their mission, please visit www.erinsangels.com or contact the founder and Executive Director Sheila Dion at [email protected]

https://www.change.org/p/demand-the-passage-of-erin-s-law-to-protect-our-children

Erin's Angels of CNY is a nonprofit organization dedicated to feeding children in need through school-based programs. Since its founding, the organization has given thousands of meals to Oswego County students.  The mission is to unite Central New York to ensure that children in need have access to the food they deserve. Together, with the community’s support, they are making a meaningful difference—one meal, one child, one act of love at a time.