A lot of debate exists pertaining to the effective of the death penalty as far as deterring potential felons is concerned, and whether it is humane or not. Criminology experts believe that the death penalty no longer deters criminals from engaging in felonies. Despite the surge in the number of executions across the world, this form of punishment seems to no longer make sense any more. Here is why the death penalty ought to be abolished.
Executions are Less Retributory Than Life Sentences
Through interactions with prisoners and former inmates, one thing that you will take note of is the fact that prison sentences are hard. Actually, prison sentences are regarded to be worse than death itself because inmates typically spend most of their time locked up in tiny cells and with little communication with the outside world. This is retributory enough since it makes an offender suffer for his/her crime. Subjecting someone to the hangman’s noose or a lethal injection isn’t retributory in any way.
The Insensible Nature of Death Penalty Litigation
Research indicates that the death penalty litigation costs taxpayers way more than trials seeking life sentences without parole. For instance, Colorado recently spent $3.5 million hearing evidence about death penalty cases. This is more to an average of $150,000 that the state would have spent if it didn’t have the death penalty.
The huge financial outlay involved arises from the fact that death penalty cases involve lengthy appeals that may take up to one thousand days. This means that a significant amount of courtroom resources will end up being used. State coffers are similarly stretched paying jurors, judges, and other judicial officers who are involved. This burdens the existing criminal justice system, which is already overstretched.
Death Penalties Punish Families Rather Than the Offenders
On average, the resolution of a death penalty case may take up to 25 years. This means that for a long time, family members will be entwined in the criminal justice system, something that greatly disrupts their life. If the accused is ultimately sent to the gallows, it is the family members and friends who are left to deal with the grief that accompanies the loss of a loved one. This means that rather than punishing an offender, the death penalty punishes his/her family, friends, and loved ones.
Uneven Application
Generally, death penalties are never evenly applied. For a start, only 19 states in the U.S do not use capital punishment. In states where capital punishment can be used, it is the decision of the prosecutor to decide whether or not to pursue a death sentence. Prosecution discretion ought to be wisely applied because otherwise, it can be abused. Its proper application can help shorten trials besides eliminating the numerous appellate issues that often accompany death penalty litigations.
source http://www.winterwoodlodge.com/should-the-death-penalty-be-abolished/
