Bill Permitting Death Penalty for Perpetrators of Child Sex Trafficking Nears Passage

SB 1804, sponsored by Senator Jonathan Martin (R-Fort Myers) would make the sex trafficking of children under 12 or persons who are mentally incapacitated a capital felony, which could result in a death sentence. The bill was passed by its final committee of reference, Fiscal Policy, on Tuesday, April 22 by a 15-4 vote. 

Joe Harmon, policy coordinator, testified against the bill. "We agree that these horrific crimes are gravely evil," said Harmon. "We agree also that the state has a duty to punish offenders and protect society. We commend efforts by law enforcement to combat the scourge of human trafficking, especially the trafficking of children. Nevertheless, we urge against the death penalty as that punishment." Harmon continued to say that it is possible for the state to punish the offender, protect the public, and still not extinguish a human life. 

SB 1804 has been placed on the Senate calendar for Monday, April 28. Companion HB 1283, sponsored by Representative Berny Jacques (R-Clear Water), remains on the House Calendar on second reading.