Β CHARLOTTE, NC — “Kilah is living on, and her name is going to live on. Β We’ve made history,” said Leslie Davenport, grandmother of 4-year-old Kilah Davenport: the young namesake of Kilah’s Act.
The US Senate has passed Kilah’s Act, named after a Monroe girl severely beaten by her stepfather. Β The legislation will force states to take child abuse, and its punishment, more seriously. Β The law is named after Kilah Davenport. Β The 4-year-old died in March, almost two years after she suffered a fractured skull and permanent brain damage. Β
Kilah’s grandmother Leslie Davenport says Kilah’s memory lives on. Β “We got a law, once it’s signed by the President, that will carry her name forever, and we will save children’s lives.”
The US House passed the measure in December. Β The Act requires the US Attorney General to outline every state’s child abuse punishments. Β The goal is to basically shame states into increasing prison time for felony child abuse cases. Β Representative Robert Pittenger co-sponsored the bill, and tells WCCB Wednesday’s vote was both thrilling and sickening. Β Sickening, because we need such laws.
Another co-sponsor, Senator Richard Burr, tells WCCB, “I only regret Kilah did not survive to see her issue championed. Β God bless her and her family.”
North Carolina adopted Kilah’s Law last year. Β It makes the maximum sentence for a serious child abuse charge nearly 33 years. Β
A jury convicted Kilah’s stepfather, Joshua Houser, of felony child abuse in March. Β He was sentenced under the old guidelines to at least seven years in prison. Β Kilah’s family is waiting to hear if Houser will face additional charges because of her death. Β Leslie Davenport tells WCCB she plans to go to the Union County DA’s office Thursday to demand answers.
