Senator Warren Hamilton, R-McCurtain, today secured final passage of Senate Bill 599, legislation that would make Oklahoma’s penalties for child sex offenders among the toughest in the nation.

Under Senate Bill 599, prosecutors would have the discretion to seek the death penalty for individuals convicted of child rape on a first offense. The bill also allows judges to sentence individuals convicted of lewd molestation of a child under the age of 14 to life without the possibility of parole. “This legislation sends a clear message: If you prey on a child in Oklahoma, you will face the harshest punishment under the law,” Senator Hamilton said.

“There is no crime more vile, no betrayal more unforgivable, than the sexual assault of a child. These predators are beyond rehabilitation, they do not deserve a second chance and in my opinion, the only appropriate punishment is death.

“For the safety of our children, they should never walk free again. No parent should have to live with the fear that their child’s abuser could one day walk free, and no child should have to live in fear of one day encountering their abuser again.

“We must ensure we are protecting all the victims involved. With this legislation, we ensure that monsters who commit these horrific acts are permanently removed from society.

“I appreciate the District Attorneys Council, the staff in the Senate and House who worked hard perfecting this legislation, law enforcement officials who weighed in, citizens and judges alike.

“Also, thanks to Representative Tim Turner who helped me make this legislation stronger. I look forward to the governor signing it in order to protect the most innocent among us.”

The amended bill passed the Senate Floor with strong support, reinforcing Oklahoma’s stance on protecting its most vulnerable citizens and giving prosecutors and judges the tools needed to deliver justice.

Senate Bill 599 now heads to the governor’s desk.