The Larry Henderson Act proposes significant amendments to the Revised Code regarding aggravated murder, particularly when the victim is a peace officer, prosecutor, first responder, or military member. The bill establishes stricter penalties, allowing for either the death penalty or life imprisonment without the possibility of parole in these cases. It introduces new definitions, replacing "law enforcement officer" with "peace officer" and adding "prosecutor" to the list of protected individuals. The bill also clarifies the sentencing procedures, emphasizing that if a jury does not recommend a death sentence, the court must impose a life sentence without parole. Additionally, it stipulates that offenders under eighteen or with serious mental illnesses cannot receive the death penalty.

Moreover, the bill consolidates existing legal language related to aggravated murder into a new framework, repealing outdated sections of the Revised Code. It mandates that courts provide detailed opinions when imposing sentences, outlining the aggravating and mitigating factors considered. The overall aim of the Larry Henderson Act is to enhance the legal standards surrounding aggravated murder cases involving individuals in critical public safety roles, ensuring clarity and consistency in the application of the death penalty and addressing the treatment of vulnerable offenders.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2903.01, 2929.03, 2929.04