Idaho Governor Brad Little Signs Bill Allowing Death Penalty for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of Young Children

Boise, Idaho — Governor Brad Little has signed legislation that expands the use of the death penalty in Idaho to include certain severe cases of sexual abuse against children.

Under House Bill 380, individuals convicted of “aggravated lewd conduct with a child under the age of 12” may face the death penalty if specific aggravating factors are present. The law took effect on July 1, 2025.

The bill establishes stricter penalties for serious sexual offenses against minors, reflecting Idaho lawmakers’ efforts to impose tougher consequences for crimes against children. Governor Little stated that he supported the measure because “heinous sex crimes against children destroy lives, and the perpetrators deserve the ultimate punishment.”

This new law works in tandem with another recent measure signed by Governor Little. House Bill 37 makes the firing squad the primary method of execution in Idaho, effective July 1, 2026. Idaho will be the only state in the U.S. to designate firing squad as its default execution method.

Key Details:
The death penalty for child sex crimes applies only in cases involving children 12 years old and younger and requires multiple aggravating factors (such as use of force, multiple acts, or other serious circumstances).
Prosecutors must meet a high threshold before seeking capital punishment.
The legislation has drawn national attention and is expected to face legal challenges, as the U.S. Supreme Court previously ruled against the death penalty for child rape in a 2008 decision.
Supporters argue the laws send a strong message of protection for Idaho’s children, while critics question the constitutionality and effectiveness of expanding capital punishment.

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