Local woman starts petition aimed at crimes against children

For Anna Marie Crowe, this one is personal.

She is tired of seeing children fall victim to "heinous crimes of child abuse, battery and sexual abuse." As a result, she has created a petition aimed at seeking the elimination of bond options for individuals charged with or convicted of those offenses with the hope of ensuring the safety and well being of the community's most vulnerable members, said Crowe, who is a survivor of child abuse. 

"As a survivor of child abuse, I understand the long lasting trauma and pain these crimes inflict. The current system, which allows offenders to be released on bond, fails to recognize the severity of these crimes and puts children at continued risk," Crowe said. 

Crowe said her petition is the result of a deep concern regarding Indiana's current system. 

"It seeks to eliminate the option of bond for these specific charges, advocating for preventative detention until the resolution of their cases. This petition is the first step in, “Avery’s Law.” Our aim is to prioritize the safety and well-being of children by preventing potential continued abuse or intimidation while legal proceedings are ongoing. More often than not, these abusers are let out on bond, and walk free.," Crowe said. 

According to the petition, the Indiana State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force received 2,951 tips in January alone, and that number is only going to rise, she said. 

In addition to her own story, Crowe's son, Avery, was a victim of child battery at just three-and-a-half months old by his biological father. 

"His abuser was released after only four days. This is unacceptable.  Furthermore, cases like that of Oaklynn Vazquez, who suffered unspeakable abuse and torture leading to her tragic death, highlight the urgent need for reform. These defendants must be held in jail, without the possibility of bond, to prevent further harm and ensure justice. The rise in child abuse cases in Indiana demands immediate and decisive action. Eliminating bond options for these crimes sends a clear message that our state will not tolerate the abuse and exploitation of children," she said. 

Crowe said the safety of Indiana's children is "paramount." 

"This is a cause that deeply resonates with me. Children are among the most vulnerable members of our society, and it is our collective responsibility to protect them from harm. There are many cases of this, just in the year 2026 that hit close to home. My own son is a victim of child battery, and his abuser got out on bond after just four days. This is unacceptable. Another prime example is Oaklynn Vazquez, 11 years old of Stilesville, who died a very tragic death. All abusers involved in her case, were also given a bond. How many children are we going to allow to be hurt, without holding the abusers accountable? Ensuring their safety is not just a matter of legal obligation but a moral imperative that reflects our values as a compassionate and just society. There is no better time than now to spread the word, that it is time for change. April is Child Abuse Prevention (CAP) Month, dedicated to raising awareness and fostering community action to support families and protect children," Crowe said.

Crowe said those wanting to support the cause can sign and share the petition to help raise awareness, as well as contacting lawmakers and advocating for changes that prioritize child safety. In addition, she is asking supporters to place a pinwheel in their yard. 

"The pinwheel represents the joy of a healthy, safe childhood and serves as the national symbol for child abuse prevention. You will see these at your local courthouses," she said. 

The petition can be found at https://www.change.org/p/eliminate-bond-options-for-child-abuse-battery-and-sexual-abuse-charges-in-indiana?utm_medium=custom_url&utm_source=share_petition&recruited_by_id=ef2e2850-a785-11ea-893c-b97f2e2ad4df