Story perspectives

Alabama's New Law: Death Penalty for Child Predators

2/14/2026

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Ivey Signs Predator Act

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey signed the Child Predator Death Penalty Act, authorizing capital punishment for those convicted of child sexual crimes.
The measure, supported by a bipartisan majority, aims to enhance protections for children.
Kennedy v. Louisiana (2008) may challenge its enforcement because the Supreme Court barred capital punishment for non-fatal crimes.
The act takes effect on October 1, 2026, though advocates warn it could deter abuse reporting.

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Cooke's Care Revoked

The Iowa Supreme Court reversed a district court and upheld the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) finding that Amanda Cooke, a day care provider, denied a child critical care.
An infant in Cooke's care died from positional asphyxia.
The court cited violations of safe-sleep practices.
An administrative law judge previously ruled in Cooke's favor, finding no abuse.
The decision revoked Cooke's child care provider registration.

History

Historical Context

In 2008, the Supreme Court ruled in Kennedy v. Louisiana that the death penalty could not be imposed for non-fatal crimes, specifically child rape, emphasizing the distinction between such crimes and murder. This ruling has influenced child protection laws, prompting Alabama's recent Child Predator Death Penalty Act, which seeks to challenge this precedent, potentially leading to significant legal disputes and changes in child abuse reporting practices.

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Ivey Signs Predator Act

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey signed the Child Predator Death Penalty Act, authorizing capital punishment for those convicted of child sexual crimes.
The measure, supported by a bipartisan majority, aims to enhance protections for children.
Kennedy v. Louisiana (2008) may challenge its enforcement because the Supreme Court barred capital punishment for non-fatal crimes.
The act takes effect on October 1, 2026, though advocates warn it could deter abuse reporting.

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