2024 Minnesota Statutes

609.3775 CHILD TORTURE.

Subdivision 1.Definition.

As used in this section, "torture" means the intentional infliction of extreme mental anguish, or extreme psychological or physical abuse, when committed in an especially depraved manner.

Subd. 2.Crime.

A person who tortures a child is guilty of a felony and may be sentenced to imprisonment for not more than 25 years or to payment of a fine of not more than $35,000, or both.

Subd. 3.Proof; evidence.

(a) Expert testimony as to the existence or extent of mental anguish or psychological abuse is not a requirement for a conviction under this section.

(b) A child's special susceptibility to mental anguish or psychological abuse does not constitute an independent cause of the condition so that a defendant is exonerated from criminal liability.

(c) Proof that a victim suffered pain is not an element of a violation of this section.

History:

1Sp2021 c 11 art 2 s 39