This bill amends Section 843.5 of Title 21 of the Oklahoma Statutes, which pertains to crimes related to child abuse, neglect, and sexual offenses. The legislation modifies the penalties for individuals convicted of child sexual abuse, particularly emphasizing harsher sentences for those who abuse children under the age of twelve. Specifically, it establishes that any person responsible for a child's welfare who engages in child sexual abuse against a child under twelve will face a minimum sentence of twenty-five years to life imprisonment, along with potential fines. Additionally, the bill mandates post-imprisonment supervision for those sentenced to two years or more for such offenses, ensuring that the jury is informed of this requirement.

The bill also includes several deletions from the existing law, particularly regarding the punishment for repeat offenders of severe sexual crimes against children under fourteen. It clarifies that individuals convicted of forcible anal or oral sodomy, rape, or lewd molestation of a child under fourteen, after a previous conviction for similar offenses, will face the death penalty or life imprisonment without parole. Furthermore, the bill reinforces that consent is not a valid defense for any violations outlined in this section, and it broadens the definition of a child to include anyone under eighteen years of age. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 21-843.5