Alabama lawmakers want the death penalty for child sex crimes

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WIAT) — Lawmakers announced a proposed bill Thursday that would allow the death penalty to be given to criminals who commit rape or sodomy of children under the age of twelve.

This comes as an investigation is underway for a sex trafficking ring discovered in Bibb County.

“This is the worst of the worst offenses,” said Rep. Matt Simpson (R-Daphne). “Taking advantage and taking the innocence of children under the age of twelve is one of the worst things, if not the worst thing, that someone can do.”

Rep. Simpson said the law wouldn’t retroactively cover those involved in the Bibb County case. but he wants to deter criminals in the future.

“Because it is one of the worst offenses, it deserves the worst of the worst punishments,” he said.

Bibb County Sheriff Jody Wade said the sex trafficking case is the worst he’s ever seen.

“As we work to give a voice to these victims that haven’t been able to have their say as of yet, we just want to take time out to come here and voice our support for this legislation,” said Wade.

Attorney General Steve Marshall believes adding the death penalty to severe acts against children could help prevent the crimes from happening.

“To be able to send a clear message about, not only the intent of the legislature in protecting kids, but the public policy in our state is how we hold those who hurt our children accountable,” said Marshall.

Rep. Kenyatte Hassell (D-Montgomery) agreed sexual abuse is a horrific crime, but he said the death penalty is too extreme.

“And, you know, the death penalty is also irreversible,” he said. “We can really execute the wrong person in some of these cases. So, why do we even have the option to do the death penalty? I mean, there’s other things, life without parole.”

“I believe there is a special place in hell for child sex predators,” said Sen. April Weaver (R-Brierfield). “And when we pass this bill, and when it is approved by the courts, there is also going to be a special place in Alabama for child sex predators, and that is on death row in Holman prison.”

Sen. Weaver said the bill hasn’t officially been filed for the 2026 legislative session. She said she wants to give other lawmakers time to co-sponsor the effort.