Adults who have sexual intercourse with certain minors under their care, including adopted or foster children, can face life imprisonment under changes to Antigua and Barbuda’s sexual offences laws outlined in Parliament.

Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin highlighted the provision while presenting the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill 2026, as lawmakers considered tougher penalties for sexual offences involving children.

Benjamin told the House that the legislation covers adults who have sexual intercourse with a minor who is their adopted child, stepchild, foster child, godchild, ward or otherwise dependent on them.

The attorney general said the offence can attract a sentence of life imprisonment, underscoring the tougher approach being taken where adults abuse positions of trust or responsibility over children.

The provision was among several highlighted by Benjamin as he outlined changes aimed at strengthening protection for minors and increasing punishment for people convicted of sexual offences.

The legislation also addresses incest, sexual intercourse with minors and other sexual offences involving children.

The Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill 2026 was later approved by the House of Representatives without amendment.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: VIDEO: Sex With Adopted or Foster Child Can Carry Life in Prison Under New Law.