nge. Therefore, the death penalty actually makes our society more violent. Because of such high costs and the proven fact that it does not deter crime,the death penalty is counterproductive and a waste of our time and money.It is quite understandable that Americans feel a desperate need to dosomething to fight the increase in homicides, however, the death penalty is not anacceptable method. Not only is this method immoral and an unsuccessful deterrentof crime, it is also unconstitutional. Our constitution guarantees due process of law and restricts cruel and unusual punishment. The death penalty is the most crueland inhumane punishment, and unlike all other criminal punishments, it is irrevocable.Death forever deprives the individual of due process of law. New evidence might prove a person's innocence, but death deprives an individual of this benefit. There isno guarantee that many innocent people won't be given the death sentence and that isa mistake that we cannot correct.Overall, it is not in my power to determine the value of Ms. Pretty's life, noris it in my power to take it away. My job is to uphold the laws and laws are about justice not revenge. I do not mean to sound unsympathetic to the victim's family,however, as much as I wish I could, I am powerless to relieve them of their grief.Wanting someone else to die does not help the victim's families heal. It only makes them focus on anger and hatred instead of forgiving and healing. My duty to upholdthe constitution has been done by sentencing Ms. Pretty to a life in prison with noparole, which is must less inhumane and an equally effective method of punishment.I hope that the people of my community can understand my reasons for doing so, andwill support me in my stand for justice and not death....
