Legislation Applying the Death Penalty to Trafficking of Children Advances in Both Chambers

On April 1, SB 1804, sponsored by Senator Jonathan Martin (R-Fort Myers), was heard in the Criminal Justice Committee. Later that day, companion HB 1283, sponsored by Representative Berny Jacques (R-Clear Water), was before the Justice Budget Subcommittee. 

These bills would make sex trafficking of children under 12 or persons who are mentally incapacitated a capital felony, which could result in a death sentence. 

Joe Harmon, FCCB's policy coordinator, was present to testify in opposition at both committee hearings. "We commend efforts by law enforcement to combat the scourge of human trafficking, especially the trafficking of children," said Harmon. Yet, he urged "that death is not a good tool of justice in our society." In Florida, the practice of the death penalty has involved the state in erroneous convictions and botched executions, and it costs the state far more than the alternative of life imprisonment.

SB 1804 was approved by a 7-1 vote, and HB 1283 passed by a 9-3 vote. The bills will advance to their next committee of reference.