The bill amends the Code of Alabama 1975 to revise the criminal penalties for first-degree rape and first-degree sodomy when the victim is under the age of 12, classifying these offenses as capital crimes. This change aims to impose stricter penalties for such serious offenses against young victims. The bill includes new legal language that specifies "rape in the first degree when the victim is less than 12 years of age" and "sodomy in the first degree when the victim is less than 12 years of age" as capital offenses, thereby enhancing the severity of the legal consequences. Additionally, it clarifies definitions and conditions under which certain crimes are classified as capital offenses, including the presence of a child during the commission of these acts.

Moreover, the bill introduces several key amendments, such as defining individuals aged 16 or older who engage in sexual acts with those under 12 as committing a Class A felony. It also establishes a new requirement that defendants convicted of a capital offense must serve a minimum of 30 years before being eligible for parole. The definition of victims in capital offenses is expanded to include police officers, federal law enforcement officers, and first responders acting in their official capacity, thereby enhancing protections for public safety personnel. The bill is scheduled to take effect on October 1, 2025, following its passage in the House of Representatives.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 13A-5-40, 13A-5-49, 13A-6-61, 13A-6-63, 13A-6-65
Engrossed: 13A-5-40, 13A-5-49, 13A-6-61, 13A-6-63, 13A-6-65