Establishing the crime of torture

HB 2194 would create a new felony crime of "torture" in West Virginia law. It defines torture as intentionally causing cruel or extreme physical or mental pain while a person is in the perpetrator's custody or physical control (e.g., forced restraint without consent). The bill specifies that serious bodily injury (like disfigurement, permanent harm, or life-threatening wounds) or severe mental suffering (profound psychological harm from threats, drugs, or other acts) must occur, but proof of pain itself is not required. A conviction carries a mandatory minimum 15-year prison sentence, and does not prevent separate charges for related offenses. This bill directly affects individuals who inflict such harm under custody, including potential cases involving law enforcement or caregivers.