HI SB2092

Adds a new section to Chapter 709, Hawaii Revised Statutes, establishing the criminal offense of child torture.

Applies to parents, legal guardians, or individuals with recurring access to a minor who intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly torture a minor with intent to cause mental anguish.

Defines torture to include inflicting bodily injury, threatening death, threatening harm to another person or pet, depriving necessary food/clothing/shelter/medical care, forcing ingestion of feces/toxic substances, and physically restraining a minor in a grossly unreasonable manner.

Defines "mental anguish" as mental pain and distress beyond worry or anxiety that causes substantial disruption in the minor's daily routine.

Classifies child torture as a class A felony, effective upon approval.