PHILADELPHIA — Federal trial was scheduled to begin this week here in the case of Anthony “Mark” Bianchi of North Wildwood who is accused of assaulting nearly a dozen minors on foreign soil. The charges are being brought under a controversial law aimed at thwarting “sex tourism.”
Bianchi, 44, a wealthy motel owner, was convicted seven years ago in Russia on child molestation charges, and sent to prison, only to later be expelled from the country, according to press reports; he allegedly then traveled over the next few years to Moldova, Romania, Cambodia and Cuba to recruit destitute boys for sexual trysts.
The law under which Bianchi is being prosecuted is controversial for its reach into international jurisdiction. More than 50 cases have been brought under the law known as The Protect Act, and more than 30 of the defendants have been convicted, according to a report citing the Justice Department.
Avalon – It absolutely makes sense for means testing for Social Security. We need to trim benefits for anyone 50 or younger, and give them better savings options. Anyone 50 or older should be grandfathered….
