Governor Kevin Stitt has signed Senate Bill 599 into law. That measure gives prosecutors the choice to request the death penalty in first time child rape cases. The new law also allows for the punishment of life in prison without parole for those found guilty of lewd molestation of a child under the age of 14 years old.
SB 599’s author, Senator Warren Hamilton, thanked the governor for enacting the bill.
“Oklahoma is sending a clear and unequivocal message, crimes against our most vulnerable citizens, our children, will be met with the harshest consequences,” Senator Hamilton said. “I deeply appreciate Governor Stitt for signing this crucial legislation. His action reaffirms our state’s commitment to justice and to protecting children from predators who, frankly, don’t deserve a second chance. Praise be to God for having a hand in ensuring the right decisions were made in getting this across the finish line.”
