This bill proposes the addition of a new section, 61-8D-11, to the Code of West Virginia, establishing the criminal offense of child torture. It defines "torture" as a course of conduct against a child that includes various severe acts, such as inflicting prolonged pain, depriving the child of food or water, and subjecting the child to extreme temperatures or humiliating treatment. The bill outlines specific actions that constitute torture, including physical harm, emotional distress, and neglect of basic needs.

Under the proposed legislation, individuals aged 16 and older who commit acts of child torture resulting in bodily injury would face felony charges, with penalties ranging from 10 to 25 years of imprisonment, and a minimum of 10 years before being eligible for parole. If the torture does not result in bodily injury, the penalties would still be severe, with imprisonment ranging from 10 to 20 years and a minimum of 8 years before parole eligibility. The bill aims to strengthen legal protections for children and impose significant consequences for those who engage in such abusive behaviors.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 61-8D-11