The Larry Henderson Act amends the Revised Code to impose stricter penalties for aggravated murder when the victim is a peace officer, corrections officer, prosecutor, first responder, or military member. The bill establishes that the penalties for aggravated murder in these cases will be either death or life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. It introduces new definitions for "peace officer," "corrections officer," and "prosecutor," while clarifying the circumstances under which these enhanced penalties apply. Additionally, the bill replaces the term "law enforcement" with "peace officer" and adds "corrections officer" and "prosecutor" to the list of protected individuals.

The legislation also outlines specific sentencing procedures, emphasizing that if a jury does not recommend a death sentence for aggravated murder involving certain aggravating circumstances, the court must impose life imprisonment without parole. It clarifies that individuals under eighteen cannot receive such a sentence and requires detailed findings regarding mitigating and aggravating factors during sentencing. The bill further allows for greater presentation of mitigating evidence by defendants and specifies that indictments for aggravated murder must clearly state any aggravating circumstances. Overall, the Larry Henderson Act aims to enhance legal protections for individuals in critical public safety roles while refining the legal standards surrounding capital punishment.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2903.01, 2929.03, 2929.04
As Reported By House Committee: 2903.01, 2929.03, 2929.04, 2941.14
As Passed By House: 2903.01, 2929.03, 2929.04, 2941.14