Florida lawmakers have adopted legislation that allows the death penalty for adults convicted of sexually abusing minors. The law, backed by Republican Governor Ron DeSantis, was approved by the Senate on a 34-5 vote. Notably, the dissenting votes were cast by three Democratic and two Republican leaders.
Once passed, the bill will empower juries to pass death sentences by a majority of at least 8-4, instead of requiring a unanimous decision. If fewer than eight jury members suggest the death penalty, the prisoner will be sentenced to life in prison.
The law was passed by the Florida House of Representatives 95-14 last week and now just needs DeSantis’ signature. It would apply to anyone convicted of child abuse under the age of 12.
“My view is, you have some of these people that will be serial rapists of six, seven-year-old kids. I think the death penalty is the only appropriate punishment when you have situations like that,” said DeSantis after passing of the legislation.
State Senate Minority Leader Lauren Book (D-Davie) and State Sen. Jonathan Martin (R-Fort Myers) co-sponsored the bill, which was a nonpartisan effort. They contended that pedophiles were more likely to commit crimes again and hence merited the death penalty.
“Once a predator has a child ensnared, they will harm that child over and over and over again. And then move on to another innocent child,” said Book.
“There is no statute of limitations on this crime (for victims). There is no end. It’s always with you.”