From Aundrea Peterson, Deputy Chief of Staff | Utah Senate
SALT LAKE CITY – In an effort to enhance protection for Utah’s children and address an alarming national trend, Sen. Don L. Ipson is sponsoring a bill during the 2025 General Session to strengthen penalties for child torture. This proposed legislation would make child torture a standalone crime, escalating it from a second-degree felony to a first-degree felony and imposing a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years.
“The abuse and torture of a child is one of the most heinous crimes imaginable,” said Sen. Ipson. “Our children deserve to grow up free from fear, and anyone who tortures a child must face the full weight of the law.”
The proposed bill comes in response to a rise in child torture cases nationwide, as well as some high-profile incidents in Utah. Currently, first-time offenders of child torture may not face prison time, with incarceration recommended only for those with extensive criminal histories. This legislation aims to enhance the severity of punishment.
“By strengthening the penalties for this horrible offense, we send a strong, clear message: anyone who tortures a child will spend a long, long time behind bars,” said Washington County Attorney Eric Clarke, who was involved in the drafting of this bill.
This legislation redefines child torture by expanding the definition of aggravated child abuse to create a new category that includes both physical and psychological abuse over an extended period.
“Children often carry feelings of blame or guilt for the abuse they’ve endured,” said Kristy Pike, Director of Washington County Children’s Justice Center. “A longer criminal sentence provides victims with a greater sense of security as they heal, reinforces that what happened to them was inexcusable and helps assure them that support is available to help them rebuild.”
The bill received a favorable recommendation from the Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Interim Committee during the October interim and will be considered during the 2025 General Session. Read the draft of the bill here.