Ivey Signs Child Predator Death Penalty Act

Alabama has taken a major step in strengthening penalties for crimes against children.

Governor Kay Ivey signed the Child Predator Death Penalty Act into law Thursday, calling it one of her top priorities this legislative session. The new law allows the death penalty for individuals convicted of certain felony sexual crimes against children under the age of 12.

Under the legislation, first degree rape, first degree sodomy, and first degree sexual assault involving victims younger than 12 will now be classified as capital offenses, making those convicted eligible for the death penalty.

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“For too long, the most vulnerable of our society have lacked the most stringent legal protection from child predators,” Ivey said in a press release. “Those who target the youngest among us for the vilest crimes will soon be met with the harshest punishment under the law.”

The bill was sponsored by state Rep. Matt Simpson and state Sen. April Weaver, who both described the measure as a strong message that Alabama will not tolerate crimes against children.

Support for the legislation intensified following a 2025 case in Bibb County where eight individuals were arrested and charged in connection with the abuse and trafficking of at least 10 children, some as young as three years old.

The Child Predator Death Penalty Act will officially take effect October 1, 2026, positioning Alabama among a small number of states with similar penalties for crimes involving young children.