Bill > H3773

This bill amends the existing law to establish capital punishment for the murder of law enforcement officers. The key provisions are: 1. The bill creates a new offense of "capital murder" for individuals 18 years or older who intentionally kill or seriously harm a law enforcement officer while they are engaged in their official duties or in retaliation for performing their duties. Those convicted of capital murder can be punished by death or life imprisonment without parole. 2. The bill outlines the process for a presentence hearing to determine the appropriate sentence, including consideration of aggravating factors (such as the murder being committed to avoid arrest or during the commission of another felony) and mitigating factors (such as the defendant having no prior criminal history or being under extreme duress). The jury must unanimously agree on the sentence of death or life without parole. 3. The bill defines "law enforcement officer" to include correction officers and persons with the authority of police officers, sheriffs, or deputy sheriffs.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/H3773