This bill aims to strengthen penalties for crimes against children in West Virginia by amending several sections of the state's criminal code. It establishes mandatory sentences for individuals aged 18 and older convicted of specific sexual offenses against children under 12, particularly when aggravating circumstances are present. These circumstances include the use of forcible compulsion, predatory acts, the use of a weapon, or the removal of the victim to an unsafe location. Additionally, the bill mandates that repeat offenders of these crimes will face life imprisonment without the possibility of parole, commutation, or any form of early release.

The bill also addresses the filming of sexually explicit conduct involving minors, making it a felony for anyone who knowingly permits or engages minors in such acts, with penalties including fines and imprisonment in a state correctional facility for up to 10 years. Furthermore, it includes provisions that prevent individuals convicted under these laws from being eligible for sentence suspension, probation, or early release until their full sentence has been served. Overall, the legislation seeks to impose stricter consequences for those who commit serious crimes against children, thereby enhancing the protection of minors in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 61-8B-9a, 61-8C-2, 61-14-2