Republicans in the Idaho House passed a new bill on Tuesday, February 13, that would make sexual offenses against minors punishable by death.
House Bill 515 would permit the death sentence in situations involving indecent behavior involving minors under the age of 12 and mitigating factors.
House lawmakers were informed by co-sponsor Rep. Bruce Skaug, R-Nampa, that capital punishment would only be applied in extreme circumstances, including as situations involving repeat offenders.
“Our culture has a very dark, very profound aspect. And it is our responsibility to keep the kids safe. Sometimes the situation is so heinous that vengeance is just, according to Skaug.
Idaho Reports states that the death sentence is only permitted in cases of first-degree murder under Idaho law.
In 2008, the United States Supreme Court struck down the death penalty for child rape inLouisiana versus Kennedy.
Florida enacted a death penalty for child rape last year. Concerned that the Idaho bill violates the Constitution, Skaug stated he believes the current Supreme Court would rule differently.
“Well, some things are constitutional, and some things aren’t.” Depending on the court of the day,” lawyer Skaug informed MPs in the House.
The Idaho Department of Correction reports that there are just eight inmates in Idaho on death row.
Skaug stated he believes the new bill will result in fewer instances.
It would be extremely uncommon for this situation to arise. Although it would be extremely uncommon, prosecutions in cases of this nature will occasionally request the death penalty. And I advise you to read that case when you see it.
