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The United States Supreme Court today struck down a Louisiana law authorizing the death penalty for rape where the victim is not killed. One Utah representative is frustrated with the decision.
Utah Rep. Carl Wimmer wanted the death penalty for child rape. Now that the High Court has spoken in a 5-4 decision, he doubts there is any reason to submit a bill.
"[It's] a tragic day for Utah, tragic day for children. The ruling, it's just a bad thing for the country," Wimmer said.
The court struck down a Louisiana law authorizing the death penalty for anyone who rapes a child under 12. No one has been executed in the country for rape since 1964.
E-mail: tcallan@ksl.com