Indiana Enacts New Laws to Protect Children Online

Following the death of an Indiana teenager found in Central Ohio earlier this year, Indiana Governor Mike Braun has signed two significant bills into law. These measures are designed to protect children within the state from exploitation on social media and to aggressively target online predators.

Parental Consent Required for Minors on Social Media

One key provision of the new legislation requires social media platforms to obtain verifiable parental consent for all Indiana users under the age of 16. This aims to empower parents with greater control over their children’s online activities and safeguard them from potential harm.

Hailey Buzbee's Case Highlights Online Dangers

The legislation is directly linked to the case of Hailey Buzbee, who met Tyler Thomas, a 39-year-old man from Columbus, Ohio, through online video games. Federal agents state that Thomas picked up Hailey in January. Sadly, her remains were discovered a month later in Wayne National Forest in Perry County, Ohio.

Father's Plea for Stricter Laws

Hailey’s father, Beau Buzbee, actively campaigned for stricter laws to protect children from online predators, speaking at the Ohio Statehouse earlier this year. “I can’t change what happened to Hailey,” Buzbee stated. “As her father ... there are still moments daily when my mind and heart try to believe that I can. Until that reality, once again, knocks me down to my knees.”

Buzbee further emphasized the dangers posed by predators, stating, “These predators do the devil’s work by hiding behind an irresponsible social media, messaging apps, games and other platforms.”

Legal Updates in Hailey Buzbee's Case

As of last week, Tyler Thomas was transferred to the Franklin County Jail from the Fairfield County Jail. He is currently being held on a federal felony charge. Thomas has waived his right to a speedy indictment, extending the deadline for federal charges to June.

Other News from Central Ohio

  • A house fire in Lancaster on Wednesday morning resulted in three fatalities and the rescue of two individuals.
  • Police shot and killed a man in north Columbus on Tuesday night.
  • The Ohio Supreme Court will consider an appeal from the City of Columbus regarding its gun laws.
  • A newly unsealed search warrant provides details regarding an investigation at a home in Weinland Park.