Utah § 76-5-109.4 - Child torture.

Full text of Utah Utah Code § 76-5-109.4 — Child torture., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 76-5-109.4. Child torture.

Effective 5/7/2025
76-5-109.4.  Child torture.
(1)
(a)As used in this section:
(i)"Child" means the same as that term is defined in Section 76-5-109.
(ii)"Course of conduct" means a pattern of conduct composed of two or more acts that evidence a continuity of purpose.
(iii)"Serious injury" means the same as that term is defined in Section 76-5-109.
(b)Terms defined in Section 76-1-101.5 apply to this section.
(2)An actor commits child torture if the actor intentionally or knowingly inflicts upon a child, or having the care or custody of a child, intentionally or knowingly causes or permits another to inflict upon the child:
(a)a serious injury that is inflicted in an exceptionally cruel or exceptionally depraved manner that causes the child to experience extreme physical or psychological pain or anguish; or
(b)a serious injury, or more than one serious injury, as part of a course of conduct or over a prolonged period of time.
(3)
(a)Except as provided under Subsection (3)(b), a violation of Subsection (2) is a first degree felony subject to a sentence of imprisonment of at least 10 years and which may be for life.
(b)If, when imposing a sentence of imprisonment, a court finds that a lesser term than the term described in Subsection (3)(a) is in the interests of justice and states the reasons for this finding on the record, the court may impose a term of imprisonment of not less than:
(i)seven years and which may be for life; or
(ii)four years and which may be for life.
(4)Imprisonment under Subsection (3) is mandatory in accordance with Section 76-3-406.
(5)An actor's conduct is not subject to punishment under Subsection (2)(b) if the serious injury that forms the basis for the offense is based solely on the commission of two or more injuries by the same individual as described under Subsection 76-5-109(1)(a)(iii)(B)(V).


Enacted by Chapter 284, 2025 General Session

Related Utah Legal Topics

Frequently Asked Questions About Utah § 76-5-109.4

What does Utah Code § 76-5-109.4 cover?

Section 76-5-109.4 ("Child torture.") is part of the Utah Code, the codified statutory law of Utah. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Utah § 76-5-109.4?

A common citation format is "Utah Code § 76-5-109.4" (Utah). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Utah law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Utah official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Utah attorney.

How does Utah § 76-5-109.4 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Utah can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Utah.