House Democrats Call For Tougher Child Protection Law

Kansas City’s infamous Precious Doe case has prompted a state representative to seek to broaden the first degree murder statute. Representative Paul LeVota of Independence proposes the expansion, based on the circumstances surrounding the investigation of Erica Green’s death. Known for four years as Precious Doe, because officials couldn’t identify her decapitated body, Green was identified only last year. Her step-father is charged with killing her. LeVota says the case was a wake-up call. LeVota’s proposal would also add to the list of people required to report child abuse. It would add anyone living in a home who observes such abuse. Authorities found the head-less body in early 2001. The body went unidentified for four years.