Senator Warren Hamilton, R-McCurtain, was recently presented the Liberty Bell Award by the Oklahoma District Attorney’s Association for his legislative efforts to protect Oklahoma’s children.

“I would like to thank the District Attorney’s Association for their outstanding work in the pursuit of justice and for considering me for the Liberty Bell Award,” Hamilton said. “While my name might be on this award, I accept it on behalf of every person involved in our criminal justice system, from law enforcement to staffers to district attorneys and their assistants, whose reason for their service is the protection of the innocent and justice for the victims. Thank you for your service and your sacrifice.”

Hamilton was recognized for his efforts to make Oklahoma’s penalties for child sex offenders among the toughest in the nation through Senate Bill 599.

Under the resulting new law, which takes effect on November 1, prosecutors 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.

Senator Hamilton’s legislative efforts have consistently prioritized the protection of children.

The Liberty Bell Award serves as a symbol of his ongoing effort to uphold justice, safeguard the innocent, and champion laws that reflect the values of the state.