Bill > SB1046

This bill amends West Virginia law to increase penalties for first-degree sexual assault, particularly in cases involving victims under 12 years old. Specifically, it raises the minimum and maximum fines for this felony offense and, for individuals 18 or older convicted of first-degree sexual assault where the victim is under 12, it mandates a sentence of life imprisonment, removing the possibility of parole until 15 years have been served, aligning this severe penalty with that for first-degree murder. The bill also clarifies that the jury or court can recommend mercy in such cases, which would then make the individual eligible for parole after serving 15 years, similar to how mercy recommendations affect murder sentences.

Justice

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=1046&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill