I gave a yes vote but with some reservations.
My stance on the entire justice system is probably different from many others in that I think its first priority should be on maintaining the safety of the public. Rehabilitation is secondary to that to me, just because the one being rehabilitated has already violated the rights of others, thus mandating their needs should be of secondary importance. Punishment is likewise low because it doesn't accomplish anything positive, save the dubious effect of providing a sort of deterence.
All that being said, the death penalty should only ever be used in cases where there is NO doubt not merely beyond a reasonable doubt. I see it favorably in some instances because it means the offender can never present a danger to the public ever again. I cringe at the thought of a Clifford Olsen ever being allowed out on a clerical error or escape... and we have had cases where a con is mistakenly let out on day parole or some other program and they have killed, which says the system is NOT perfect. Conversely a case like David Milgaard's was one where it should not have been on the table, IMO, simply because there were far too many questions left unanswered.
Good sensible post. :smile:
The only way execution would be cheaper would be the Chinese method - conviction for serious crime is emediate execution by bullet to the back of the head. And I'm sure their legal system is even more corrupt than ours but it is cheaper and more efficient!
Put me down as a no on capital punishment.
A bullet to the front of the head might make him sweat a little more.