SB1697

Missouri SB1697 amends the state's criminal code to establish procedures for sentencing in cases of statutory rape and sexual trafficking of a child.

Missouri SB1697, known as the Anti-Epstein Child Protection Act, amends the state's criminal code to establish specific procedures for sentencing in cases of statutory rape and sexual trafficking of a child. The bill mandates a two-stage trial process when the death penalty is not waived. At the first stage, the trier decides only on the defendant's guilt. If the defendant is found guilty, a second stage focuses solely on the punishment.