Is it Necessary for Americans to Question,or Stop Executions?
Everyday Americans around the world are rushing to work, school, or running around town completing their errands .We are only thinking about whats going on in our own life, work, bills, school, kids, were all guilty of it. On September 17, 2007, just when you thought it is just another day, a three year old boy took his last breath. His name was Carlos Matthew Asunia. This little boy "Carlos" was a human body bag for many people who came in and out of his life. Day in and day out for three years, Carlos was sexually, physically, and mentally abused . On this particular day Carlo's little body could not take another beating. Carlo's mother's girl-friend / lover, "Mercedes Howard", for some reason had always been jealous of him. Every chance Howard got she abused him mentally and physical . Even though both the mother and the Mercedes Howard were known methamphetamine users, still managed to keep custody of this boy. During an early September morning Carlo's little body was brought into the hospital only to be pronounced dead on arrival . While the doctors and nurse were examining the Carlos body, they observed burns, fresh, old bruises, and a stab wound in his stomach. During the questioning of the Carlo's mother and her lover the following story was given. Mercedes Howard was in a room with the little boy, hitting him. When the mother entered the room and shouted to the girl-friend "WHAT HAPPENED?" Mercedes replied "nothing" with a blank look on her face. When the police department interviewed Howard, she sat there with a blank face showing no emotion, she told the cops that she "threw the little boy across the room......twice." There are tons of horrific crimes, sad, but many true stories in the world.
The question at hand is, Is it necessary for Americans to Question or Stop executions? This question can only be answered by each individual person, as any question. Executions in America has been controverisal since the very first execution. When it comes to executions there are three categories Americans fall into. Group one believes that executions are inhumane, and all men and women have the right to live, no matter what crimes they have committed. The Second group believes in executions (justice- "eye-for an eye"), that individuals who kill, or in some states rape a child under the age of 14 should be held accountable for their actions. Group three are the individuals who are unaware and uninformed. This argument is directed toward all three groups "society". This arguments purpose is to educate group number three, persuade group number one, and promote group number two.
History of Executions in the United States
Execution has be in existence since 1808. Abolitionist Movement also has going on since Colonial Time.
"However in June 29, 1972, the Supreme Court effectively voided 40 death penalty statutes, thereby commuting the sentences of 629 death row inmates around the country and suspending the death penalty because existing statutes were no longer valid. The ten-year moratorium on executions that had begun with the Jackson and Witherspoon decisions ended on January 17, 1977, with the execution of Gary Gilmore by firing squad in Utah. Gilmore did not challenge his death sentence". [4] In 1996 the Supreme Courts ruled that the Eighth Amendment prohibits insane people be executed.
Method of executions
There are five methods of executions used by the United States. However not all states use the same methods, Hanging, Electrocution, Firing Squad, lethal gas, and lethal injection. However with every execution method, some group has had an issue with them "hanging is inhuman", "Electrocution is inhuman", "Firing Squad is inhuman", "lethal gas is inhuman", "lethal injection is inhuman". The first hanging was recorded in 1808. New Hampshire and Washington still hang prisoners for their use of method of execution. Idaho, Oklahoma (Utah) offer the firing squad only for inmates who chose this methods prior to its elimination as an option. 37 States adopted the use of lethal injection. 10 States use electrocution as their form of execution. 5 state use the Gas Chamber as a form of execution.[8] Execution by Hanging were one of the very first methods used in the earlier times. However other counties still use hanging. Execution by hanging is pretty simple. The prisoner is placed on a platform (were the prisoner standing, there is a trap door) a nus is placed around the prisoners neck, and when executor pulls the lever, the trap door opens, the prisoner falls though the platform. Usually the prisoner neck is broken, and the prisoner is pronounced dead with-in minutes. Electrocution is another form of execution, which in some states is still used. This method is execution by electricity. The prisoner is placed in a chair, with all limbs strapped down, by leather straps. A wet sponge is placed on the prisoners head (the prisoner head must be shaved), another leather strap placed over the month. Then a black hood is placed over the head.
This is a picture of Allen Lee Davis after being executed in July 1999. Copyright © 1995 to 2007 by Ontario Consultants on Religious Tolerance.
Originally published: 1995-JUN-8. Last updated 2007-JAN-06. Author: Bruce A Robbins
Another form of execution is by firing squad. This method still used today in the United States. For execution by this method, the inmate is typically bound to a chair with leather straps across his waist and head, in front of an oval-shaped canvas wall. The chair is surrounded by sandbags to absorb the inmate's blood. A black hood is pulled over the inmate's head. A doctor locates the inmate's heart with a stethoscope and pins a circular white cloth target over it. Standing in an enclosure 20 feet away, five shooters are armed with .30 caliber rifles loaded with single rounds. One of the shooters is given blank rounds. Each of the shooters aims his rifle through a slot in the canvas and fires at the inmate. (Weisberg, 1991) (DPIC) [4]
Lethal Gas is another method used to execute prisoners. The condemned person is strapped to a chair in an airtight chamber. Below the chair rests a pail of sulfuric acid. A long stethoscope is typically affixed to the inmate so that a doctor outside the chamber can pronounce death. Once everyone has left the chamber, the room is sealed. The warden then gives a signal to the executioner who flicks a lever that releases crystals of sodium cyanide into the pail. This causes a chemical reaction that releases hydrogen cyanide gas. (Weisberg, 1991) The prisoner is instructed to breathe deeply to speed up the process. Most prisoners, however, try to hold their breath, and some struggle. The inmate does not lose consciousness immediately. (DPIC) [4]
Lethal Injection Consists Of: Sodium Thiopental (lethal dose - sedates person), Pancuronium Bromide (muscle relaxant-collapses diaphragm and lungs), Potassium Chloride (stops heart beat)
The offender is usually pronounced dead approximately 7 minutes after the lethal injection begins. The condemned person is usually bound to a gurney and a member of the execution team positions several heart monitors on this skin. Two needles (one is a back-up) are then inserted into usable veins, usually in the inmates arms. Long tubes connect the needle through a hole in a cement block wall to several intravenous drips. The first is a harmless saline solution that is started immediately. Then, at the warden's signal, a curtain is raised exposing the inmate to the witnesses in an adjoining room. Then, the inmate is injected with sodium thiopental - an anesthetic, which puts the inmate to sleep. Next flows pavulon or pancuronium bromide, which paralyzes the entire muscle system and stops the inmate's breathing. Finally, the flow of potassium chloride stops the heart. Death results from anesthetic overdose and respiratory and cardiac arrest while the condemned person is unconscious. (Ecenbarger, 1994 and Weisberg, 1991) Cost per execution for drugs used : $86.08 [10]
Type of crime to be sentenced to death row
The type of crime to be sentenced to life on death row, or waiting on death row till execution; in the United states is murder. With the exception of seven states Texas 2007, Oklahoma 2006, South Carolina 2006, Georgia 1999, Montana 1997, Louisiana 1995, and Florida 1974 all allow the death penalty for rape of a child.Currently no-one siting on death row, are convicted for rape of a child. Whether it be First degree murder, Capital murder, Intentional murder, murder, or Criminal homicide "Texas is the only state that sentence inmates to death row for criminal homicide". There are a few states that have statutes allowing the death penalty, as well as Federal capital statutes for non-murder crimes. However there are inmates/prisoners currently on death row, for such crimes.[4]
Current Stats of inmates on death row, Wrongfully convicted "exonerated"
Currently their are a total of 3357 prisoner on death row, 3298 males, and 59 females [4]. Like all controverisal issues, there are two sides. Execution have been dated in existence since 1808, there have been individuals wrongly executed. However technology, and forensics has come a long way, with DNA testing. With modern advance technology and studies, help clear individuals from death row. Even now their has been some individuals released from death row. One case was Sabrina Butler convicted in Mississippi of murdering her month-old child. Sabrina Butler was sentenced to death in 1990 in Mississippi. Butler said she performed CPR on her child when she found him not breathing and then took him to the hospital. The Mississippi Supreme Court overturned the conviction in 1992 and in 1995 Butler was acquitted on evidence that the baby had died of kidney disease or sudden infant death syndrome. [5]
Current issue concerning Lethal Executions in America. It took Angel Diaz 34 minutes to die by lethal injection at his execution in Florida USA,in December 2006. According to reports he was moving, grimacing and attempted to speak for over 20 minutes of that time. The needles had failed to deliver the deadly mix of chemicals into his bloodstream, penetrating further to surrounding soft tissue instead. A witness stated that he had chemical burns on his arms. A second injection had to be administered to complete the death sentence. The botched execution prompted Florida to put a freeze on all lethal injections pending an investigation into current procedures. [1] [6] This just one case that has gone bad, but Amnesty International (AI) would like all of America, and the world to believe that every lethal injection happens like this, AI would like more is Americans, and the whole world to hear this and stop all executions. Due to one execution gone bad. However Mr. Angel Diaz was a convicted criminal, and sentence to death by lethal injection. Mr. Diaz was not a kind, law abiding citizen.
Process of Appeals, for Death Row Prisoners
Originally there are three types of appeal process. The first appeal is an ordinary appeals which is submitted with or without written or verbal consent, unless during plea agreement, or sentence the jurors gave the option life on death row. The second appeal is state post-conviction review, and the third is federal habeas corpus petition, used to challenge state convictions or sentence. Due to the courts being swamped with massive appeals, they decide to make appeals process stricter. So in 1983 the Supreme Court slowly made it hard for death row inmates to use habeas corpus to challenge their conviction or sentences. Then in February 2000 a new bill became in affect called "Innocence Protection Act". This bill was geared to give federal and state inmates a right to DNA testing for post-conviction challenges if the testing would produce new evidence that the inmate did not commit the crime. In 1996, when a federal building in Oklahoma City was blown up in 1995, Congress rewrote federal habeas corpus law. Anti-terrorism and Effective Death Penalty Act, new time limit: one year in most cases, but only six months in capital cases; only for inmates to file a federal habeas corpus petiton after all state appeals have been exhausted, limited prisoner to one appeal in most cases. (DPIC) [4]
In conclusion Execution has been around for many years, since the colonial times. The movement to stop execution, has also been an on going since the first execution. In America there is a strong act for justice, its highly doubtful that the abolishment to execution will happen. However a lot of people believe that these criminals can change "reformed". After reading prisoners files and seeing them interact, these individuals can not function in society. The individuals (staff, prison guards, the correction, or detention officer) who work inside a prison, correctional, or jail see that most prisoner can not be reformed. Were not saying all but most, the repeaters, can not survive out in the real world. Their mentality once incarcerated change, they've changed, their not going to drink, do, or sell drugs, steel, rape, beat their love one, I can control my temper. I'm a born again christian. However once they step out that door and they taste freedom, and temptations by the worlds choice, some get over burden. Their mind frame is unclear, theirs no one to tell them what they can and cannot do.The main point is to remind society that it's not the victims fault, and it's not anyone fault but that individual who commit the crime. Here's an example of someone who committed a crime and during that time did not care about anyone but his-self. Amador, John age of offence 18 yrs old. Education level 11 years. Date of offence Jan. 04,1994. Prior Prison record: No Prior TDCJ incarceration served three years for murder in California. Paroled in 1993. Summary of offence: Convicted in the robbery and murder of 32 year old Reza Aryan a San Antonio cab driver. Amador and a 16-year old female-co-defendant hailed Aryan's cab in San Antonio and had him drive to a rural part of Bexan county where he was shot once in the back of the head by Amador. Esther Garza, who accompanied Aryan in his cab was shot in the face by Amador's accomplice, but survived to identify the assailants. After rifling Garza's pockets, the two assailants fled in the Taxi Express cab. Amador, John was executed in Aug 29,2007. Amador last statement was the following: "God forgive them, God give them for they know not what they do. After all these years my people are still lost in hatred and anger. Give them peace. God for people seeking revenge towards me I love you guys, I love you guys. God give them peace I love you Chiquita. Peace, Freedom, I'm ready." [9] As a part of society we are not here to judge, were are here to insure peace, and justice to society. Mervin Polk the warden of South Carlina stated " nobody looks forward to have to deal with those types of situations its a matter of law, that we have to deal with. From a personal stand point, it's tuff to see people in that type of situation, where by law we have to do it".[8] A lot people say that executions are inhuman. Who can say it's not, unless you die in your sleep and of natural causes, dieing is going to be painful. It is only human nature to feel pain or sorrow for a person that is dieing. However the difference between us and the prisoners on death row, is that we have compassion, and respect life. The prisoners do not, they took someone life. Up until their very own life is at steak, they've learned that they want to live. These prisoners submit appeal, after appeal trying to save their own life, but what about the life they took. Where's the Innocent's appeal, at a chance at life.
Annotated Bibliography
I decided to write about execution in America. However majority of American do not hear about execution until after the fact, in a brief statement from the local news station. My research question is: "Is it Necessary for Americans to Question,or Stop Executions?" I plan to briefly give a history of executions in America. Discusses a current debate concerning the death penalty in the United States "lethal injection". The different types of methods of execution, and each states designates which methods to use. Discusses a current debate concerning the death penalty in the United States "lethal injection". Execution has been a hot topic since the colonel time, when the first execution was recorded. Type of crime, a criminal committed to be sentenced to death "death row". Although there are not a lot of inmates/prisoners that have been exonerated from death row, their have been ex-prisoners exonerated. Currently there are 3357 prisoners on death row, 3298 are male prisoners, and 59 females. Last be not least I will give my personal opinion of the subject "execution".
[1]Executive Committee: Lilian Gonçalves - Ho Kang You, Pietro Antonioli , Soledad García Muñoz , Levent Korkut , Peter Pack , Christine Pamp , Vanushi Rajanayagam, Deborah Smith ,David Stamps Amnesty International. Since 1961 ISSN . AI Index NWS 21/001/2007Amnesty International, International Secretariat, 1 Easton Street, London, WC1X 0DW, United Kingdom <http://web.amnesty.org> <http://news.amnesty.org./index/ENGPOL300272007> This web site is against executions, and promotes all types of Human rights world wide. This site also has the latest new/cases concerning execution all around the world. I will use this source for the views for the other side of execution. You can find facts, and statistics, about death penalty. You can post, or read views about the death penalty. The Amnesty International started in1961. An article I found interesting was "Three Death Row Survivors call for global moratorium on execution". Which tells of three men who were once on death row. Due to lack of evidence, or other reasons were exonerated. Now those men are telling their story, to stop executions period. Another current issue is Angel Diaz, execution gone wrong. "US courts rule lethal injection inhumane" Feb. 2007
[2]The Economist print edition.Capital punishment, "Cause for a pause" Sep.27th 2007. < http://.economist.com/printedition/displayStory.cfm?story id=908481&fsc=RSS> "The Supreme Court agrees to examine executions by lethal injection". This article talks about the current issue with the death penalty "Lethal Injections". Lethal injections were introduced in 1978 as a way to execute an individual more humane. Before lethal injections other forms of capital punishment were conducted though—hanging, firing squad, electrocution and the gas chamber. This article states that even lethal injections are inhumane.
[3] J.J, Malony. "crime magazine" up dated 06.20/07 Copyright 1998-2007. Pat O'Connor,Editor < http://crimemagazine.com/index.html > This web site has all sorts of information, from current true crimes stories, to arguments about executions. There's also stories of old case, history of how people were hung for their crime. This is a picture of Allen Lee Davis after being executed in July 1999. Execution by the electric chair in Florida is a major controversy.This article along with this picture fights against executions. Copyright © 1995 to 2007 by Ontario Consultants on Religious Tolerance. Originally published: 1995-JUN-8. Last updated 2007-JAN-06. Author: Bruce A Robins
[4]Dieter Richard. Death Penalty Information Center. Executive Director since 1992. The Death Penalty Information Center was found in1990. It's home base is located in Washington D.C. Executive Director Dieter, Richard who's a graduate from Georgetown Law.Richard Dieter is will known around the world, for his involvement in Execution.This my #1 resource for statics of United States Execution information. When I found this web site I fell in love, not really. However I got a lot of information from this web site. This web site has it all, facts about the death penalty. The history of the execution in the United State. Issues concerning the death penalty. Reports of current events/case concerning the death penalty. This site also stats statistics for state by state crimes punishable by execution.
[ 5] Mc Cormick, John. " ?.
[6]Apr 27th 2007, From The Economist print edition. "More and more countries have doubts about the death penalty". This site deals with current issue concerning lethal injection.The passage below is a copy from the link above it states what the link is about. " to of after The
[7] This web site is about executions, news, facts, arguments about execution. People can post why the believe, OR not believe in executions. I like this site because you get to hear what peoples take on the whole issue. Also you get ideas as to what you can add to your paper, such as questions and concerns my audience may have.
[8]Scott,Langley, dir. video/film shot November 2005 This web sites has a video narrated by: Warden Mervin Polk. Warden M.Polk gives a tour of the final day on death row. The preparation of an execution. I found this web site very interesting. This site gives someone who has never seen inside a prison. It also gives you a chance to see what a person on death row, last hours are spent. The thing I like most about this web site is, what Warden Mervin Polk comment, when asked by Langley, "Whee do you rank, part of the death penalty in the terms of the difficulties in your job, Hard?".Warden Mervin Polk said, "Its hard. The only personal thing I can say about ..say about is.. of it is of course you that... situations of that... nobody looks forward to have to deal with those types of situations its a matter of law, that we have to deal with. From a personal stand point, it's tuff to see people in that type of situation, where by law we have to do it." Director Scott, Langley has fought against execution since 1999. Langley works along with Amnesty International since 2004.
[9] Livingston, Brad. Executive Director Collier, Bryan. Deputy Executive Director Texas Department of Criminal Justice 209 West 14th Street. 5th Floor, Price Daniel Building Austin, Texas 78701 Another useful web site is the Texas Execution Information. What was interesting about this web site, is that they've kept records on all their inmates and their last statements. They provide information about each prisoner, and their stats whether they are currently on death row or the decease.
[10] J. Weisberg, " The
This site had information re-guarding the ingredient's in the lethal injection, and what each chemicals does.
Everyday Americans around the world are rushing to work, school, or running around town completing their errands .We are only thinking about whats going on in our own life, work, bills, school, kids, were all guilty of it. On September 17, 2007, just when you thought it is just another day, a three year old boy took his last breath. His name was Carlos Matthew Asunia. This little boy "Carlos" was a human body bag for many people who came in and out of his life. Day in and day out for three years, Carlos was sexually, physically, and mentally abused . On this particular day Carlo's little body could not take another beating. Carlo's mother's girl-friend / lover, "Mercedes Howard", for some reason had always been jealous of him. Every chance Howard got she abused him mentally and physical . Even though both the mother and the Mercedes Howard were known methamphetamine users, still managed to keep custody of this boy. During an early September morning Carlo's little body was brought into the hospital only to be pronounced dead on arrival . While the doctors and nurse were examining the Carlos body, they observed burns, fresh, old bruises, and a stab wound in his stomach. During the questioning of the Carlo's mother and her lover the following story was given. Mercedes Howard was in a room with the little boy, hitting him. When the mother entered the room and shouted to the girl-friend "WHAT HAPPENED?" Mercedes replied "nothing" with a blank look on her face. When the police department interviewed Howard, she sat there with a blank face showing no emotion, she told the cops that she "threw the little boy across the room......twice." There are tons of horrific crimes, sad, but many true stories in the world.
The question at hand is, Is it necessary for Americans to Question or Stop executions? This question can only be answered by each individual person, as any question. Executions in America has been controverisal since the very first execution. When it comes to executions there are three categories Americans fall into. Group one believes that executions are inhumane, and all men and women have the right to live, no matter what crimes they have committed. The Second group believes in executions (justice- "eye-for an eye"), that individuals who kill, or in some states rape a child under the age of 14 should be held accountable for their actions. Group three are the individuals who are unaware and uninformed. This argument is directed toward all three groups "society". This arguments purpose is to educate group number three, persuade group number one, and promote group number two.
History of Executions in the United States
Execution has be in existence since 1808. Abolitionist Movement also has going on since Colonial Time.
"However in June 29, 1972, the Supreme Court effectively voided 40 death penalty statutes, thereby commuting the sentences of 629 death row inmates around the country and suspending the death penalty because existing statutes were no longer valid. The ten-year moratorium on executions that had begun with the Jackson and Witherspoon decisions ended on January 17, 1977, with the execution of Gary Gilmore by firing squad in Utah. Gilmore did not challenge his death sentence". [4] In 1996 the Supreme Courts ruled that the Eighth Amendment prohibits insane people be executed.
Method of executions
There are five methods of executions used by the United States. However not all states use the same methods, Hanging, Electrocution, Firing Squad, lethal gas, and lethal injection. However with every execution method, some group has had an issue with them "hanging is inhuman", "Electrocution is inhuman", "Firing Squad is inhuman", "lethal gas is inhuman", "lethal injection is inhuman". The first hanging was recorded in 1808. New Hampshire and Washington still hang prisoners for their use of method of execution. Idaho, Oklahoma (Utah) offer the firing squad only for inmates who chose this methods prior to its elimination as an option. 37 States adopted the use of lethal injection. 10 States use electrocution as their form of execution. 5 state use the Gas Chamber as a form of execution.[8] Execution by Hanging were one of the very first methods used in the earlier times. However other counties still use hanging. Execution by hanging is pretty simple. The prisoner is placed on a platform (were the prisoner standing, there is a trap door) a nus is placed around the prisoners neck, and when executor pulls the lever, the trap door opens, the prisoner falls though the platform. Usually the prisoner neck is broken, and the prisoner is pronounced dead with-in minutes. Electrocution is another form of execution, which in some states is still used. This method is execution by electricity. The prisoner is placed in a chair, with all limbs strapped down, by leather straps. A wet sponge is placed on the prisoners head (the prisoner head must be shaved), another leather strap placed over the month. Then a black hood is placed over the head.
This is a picture of Allen Lee Davis after being executed in July 1999. Copyright © 1995 to 2007 by Ontario Consultants on Religious Tolerance.
Originally published: 1995-JUN-8. Last updated 2007-JAN-06. Author: Bruce A Robbins
Another form of execution is by firing squad. This method still used today in the United States. For execution by this method, the inmate is typically bound to a chair with leather straps across his waist and head, in front of an oval-shaped canvas wall. The chair is surrounded by sandbags to absorb the inmate's blood. A black hood is pulled over the inmate's head. A doctor locates the inmate's heart with a stethoscope and pins a circular white cloth target over it. Standing in an enclosure 20 feet away, five shooters are armed with .30 caliber rifles loaded with single rounds. One of the shooters is given blank rounds. Each of the shooters aims his rifle through a slot in the canvas and fires at the inmate. (Weisberg, 1991) (DPIC) [4]
Lethal Gas is another method used to execute prisoners. The condemned person is strapped to a chair in an airtight chamber. Below the chair rests a pail of sulfuric acid. A long stethoscope is typically affixed to the inmate so that a doctor outside the chamber can pronounce death. Once everyone has left the chamber, the room is sealed. The warden then gives a signal to the executioner who flicks a lever that releases crystals of sodium cyanide into the pail. This causes a chemical reaction that releases hydrogen cyanide gas. (Weisberg, 1991) The prisoner is instructed to breathe deeply to speed up the process. Most prisoners, however, try to hold their breath, and some struggle. The inmate does not lose consciousness immediately. (DPIC) [4]
Lethal Injection Consists Of: Sodium Thiopental (lethal dose - sedates person), Pancuronium Bromide (muscle relaxant-collapses diaphragm and lungs), Potassium Chloride (stops heart beat)
The offender is usually pronounced dead approximately 7 minutes after the lethal injection begins. The condemned person is usually bound to a gurney and a member of the execution team positions several heart monitors on this skin. Two needles (one is a back-up) are then inserted into usable veins, usually in the inmates arms. Long tubes connect the needle through a hole in a cement block wall to several intravenous drips. The first is a harmless saline solution that is started immediately. Then, at the warden's signal, a curtain is raised exposing the inmate to the witnesses in an adjoining room. Then, the inmate is injected with sodium thiopental - an anesthetic, which puts the inmate to sleep. Next flows pavulon or pancuronium bromide, which paralyzes the entire muscle system and stops the inmate's breathing. Finally, the flow of potassium chloride stops the heart. Death results from anesthetic overdose and respiratory and cardiac arrest while the condemned person is unconscious. (Ecenbarger, 1994 and Weisberg, 1991) Cost per execution for drugs used : $86.08 [10]
Type of crime to be sentenced to death row
The type of crime to be sentenced to life on death row, or waiting on death row till execution; in the United states is murder. With the exception of seven states Texas 2007, Oklahoma 2006, South Carolina 2006, Georgia 1999, Montana 1997, Louisiana 1995, and Florida 1974 all allow the death penalty for rape of a child.Currently no-one siting on death row, are convicted for rape of a child. Whether it be First degree murder, Capital murder, Intentional murder, murder, or Criminal homicide "Texas is the only state that sentence inmates to death row for criminal homicide". There are a few states that have statutes allowing the death penalty, as well as Federal capital statutes for non-murder crimes. However there are inmates/prisoners currently on death row, for such crimes.[4]
Current Stats of inmates on death row, Wrongfully convicted "exonerated"
Currently their are a total of 3357 prisoner on death row, 3298 males, and 59 females [4]. Like all controverisal issues, there are two sides. Execution have been dated in existence since 1808, there have been individuals wrongly executed. However technology, and forensics has come a long way, with DNA testing. With modern advance technology and studies, help clear individuals from death row. Even now their has been some individuals released from death row. One case was Sabrina Butler convicted in Mississippi of murdering her month-old child. Sabrina Butler was sentenced to death in 1990 in Mississippi. Butler said she performed CPR on her child when she found him not breathing and then took him to the hospital. The Mississippi Supreme Court overturned the conviction in 1992 and in 1995 Butler was acquitted on evidence that the baby had died of kidney disease or sudden infant death syndrome. [5]
Current issue concerning Lethal Executions in America. It took Angel Diaz 34 minutes to die by lethal injection at his execution in Florida USA,in December 2006. According to reports he was moving, grimacing and attempted to speak for over 20 minutes of that time. The needles had failed to deliver the deadly mix of chemicals into his bloodstream, penetrating further to surrounding soft tissue instead. A witness stated that he had chemical burns on his arms. A second injection had to be administered to complete the death sentence. The botched execution prompted Florida to put a freeze on all lethal injections pending an investigation into current procedures. [1] [6] This just one case that has gone bad, but Amnesty International (AI) would like all of America, and the world to believe that every lethal injection happens like this, AI would like more is Americans, and the whole world to hear this and stop all executions. Due to one execution gone bad. However Mr. Angel Diaz was a convicted criminal, and sentence to death by lethal injection. Mr. Diaz was not a kind, law abiding citizen.
Process of Appeals, for Death Row Prisoners
Originally there are three types of appeal process. The first appeal is an ordinary appeals which is submitted with or without written or verbal consent, unless during plea agreement, or sentence the jurors gave the option life on death row. The second appeal is state post-conviction review, and the third is federal habeas corpus petition, used to challenge state convictions or sentence. Due to the courts being swamped with massive appeals, they decide to make appeals process stricter. So in 1983 the Supreme Court slowly made it hard for death row inmates to use habeas corpus to challenge their conviction or sentences. Then in February 2000 a new bill became in affect called "Innocence Protection Act". This bill was geared to give federal and state inmates a right to DNA testing for post-conviction challenges if the testing would produce new evidence that the inmate did not commit the crime. In 1996, when a federal building in Oklahoma City was blown up in 1995, Congress rewrote federal habeas corpus law. Anti-terrorism and Effective Death Penalty Act, new time limit: one year in most cases, but only six months in capital cases; only for inmates to file a federal habeas corpus petiton after all state appeals have been exhausted, limited prisoner to one appeal in most cases. (DPIC) [4]
In conclusion Execution has been around for many years, since the colonial times. The movement to stop execution, has also been an on going since the first execution. In America there is a strong act for justice, its highly doubtful that the abolishment to execution will happen. However a lot of people believe that these criminals can change "reformed". After reading prisoners files and seeing them interact, these individuals can not function in society. The individuals (staff, prison guards, the correction, or detention officer) who work inside a prison, correctional, or jail see that most prisoner can not be reformed. Were not saying all but most, the repeaters, can not survive out in the real world. Their mentality once incarcerated change, they've changed, their not going to drink, do, or sell drugs, steel, rape, beat their love one, I can control my temper. I'm a born again christian. However once they step out that door and they taste freedom, and temptations by the worlds choice, some get over burden. Their mind frame is unclear, theirs no one to tell them what they can and cannot do.The main point is to remind society that it's not the victims fault, and it's not anyone fault but that individual who commit the crime. Here's an example of someone who committed a crime and during that time did not care about anyone but his-self. Amador, John age of offence 18 yrs old. Education level 11 years. Date of offence Jan. 04,1994. Prior Prison record: No Prior TDCJ incarceration served three years for murder in California. Paroled in 1993. Summary of offence: Convicted in the robbery and murder of 32 year old Reza Aryan a San Antonio cab driver. Amador and a 16-year old female-co-defendant hailed Aryan's cab in San Antonio and had him drive to a rural part of Bexan county where he was shot once in the back of the head by Amador. Esther Garza, who accompanied Aryan in his cab was shot in the face by Amador's accomplice, but survived to identify the assailants. After rifling Garza's pockets, the two assailants fled in the Taxi Express cab. Amador, John was executed in Aug 29,2007. Amador last statement was the following: "God forgive them, God give them for they know not what they do. After all these years my people are still lost in hatred and anger. Give them peace. God for people seeking revenge towards me I love you guys, I love you guys. God give them peace I love you Chiquita. Peace, Freedom, I'm ready." [9] As a part of society we are not here to judge, were are here to insure peace, and justice to society. Mervin Polk the warden of South Carlina stated " nobody looks forward to have to deal with those types of situations its a matter of law, that we have to deal with. From a personal stand point, it's tuff to see people in that type of situation, where by law we have to do it".[8] A lot people say that executions are inhuman. Who can say it's not, unless you die in your sleep and of natural causes, dieing is going to be painful. It is only human nature to feel pain or sorrow for a person that is dieing. However the difference between us and the prisoners on death row, is that we have compassion, and respect life. The prisoners do not, they took someone life. Up until their very own life is at steak, they've learned that they want to live. These prisoners submit appeal, after appeal trying to save their own life, but what about the life they took. Where's the Innocent's appeal, at a chance at life.
Annotated Bibliography
I decided to write about execution in America. However majority of American do not hear about execution until after the fact, in a brief statement from the local news station. My research question is: "Is it Necessary for Americans to Question,or Stop Executions?" I plan to briefly give a history of executions in America. Discusses a current debate concerning the death penalty in the United States "lethal injection". The different types of methods of execution, and each states designates which methods to use. Discusses a current debate concerning the death penalty in the United States "lethal injection". Execution has been a hot topic since the colonel time, when the first execution was recorded. Type of crime, a criminal committed to be sentenced to death "death row". Although there are not a lot of inmates/prisoners that have been exonerated from death row, their have been ex-prisoners exonerated. Currently there are 3357 prisoners on death row, 3298 are male prisoners, and 59 females. Last be not least I will give my personal opinion of the subject "execution".
[1]Executive Committee: Lilian Gonçalves - Ho Kang You, Pietro Antonioli , Soledad García Muñoz , Levent Korkut , Peter Pack , Christine Pamp , Vanushi Rajanayagam, Deborah Smith ,David Stamps Amnesty International. Since 1961 ISSN . AI Index NWS 21/001/2007Amnesty International, International Secretariat, 1 Easton Street, London, WC1X 0DW, United Kingdom <http://web.amnesty.org> <http://news.amnesty.org./index/ENGPOL300272007> This web site is against executions, and promotes all types of Human rights world wide. This site also has the latest new/cases concerning execution all around the world. I will use this source for the views for the other side of execution. You can find facts, and statistics, about death penalty. You can post, or read views about the death penalty. The Amnesty International started in1961. An article I found interesting was "Three Death Row Survivors call for global moratorium on execution". Which tells of three men who were once on death row. Due to lack of evidence, or other reasons were exonerated. Now those men are telling their story, to stop executions period. Another current issue is Angel Diaz, execution gone wrong. "US courts rule lethal injection inhumane" Feb. 2007
[2]The Economist print edition.Capital punishment, "Cause for a pause" Sep.27th 2007. < http://.economist.com/printedition/displayStory.cfm?story id=908481&fsc=RSS> "The Supreme Court agrees to examine executions by lethal injection". This article talks about the current issue with the death penalty "Lethal Injections". Lethal injections were introduced in 1978 as a way to execute an individual more humane. Before lethal injections other forms of capital punishment were conducted though—hanging, firing squad, electrocution and the gas chamber. This article states that even lethal injections are inhumane.
[3] J.J, Malony. "crime magazine" up dated 06.20/07 Copyright 1998-2007. Pat O'Connor,Editor < http://crimemagazine.com/index.html > This web site has all sorts of information, from current true crimes stories, to arguments about executions. There's also stories of old case, history of how people were hung for their crime. This is a picture of Allen Lee Davis after being executed in July 1999. Execution by the electric chair in Florida is a major controversy.This article along with this picture fights against executions. Copyright © 1995 to 2007 by Ontario Consultants on Religious Tolerance. Originally published: 1995-JUN-8. Last updated 2007-JAN-06. Author: Bruce A Robins
[4]Dieter Richard. Death Penalty Information Center. Executive Director since 1992. The Death Penalty Information Center was found in1990. It's home base is located in Washington D.C. Executive Director Dieter, Richard who's a graduate from Georgetown Law.Richard Dieter is will known around the world, for his involvement in Execution.This my #1 resource for statics of United States Execution information. When I found this web site I fell in love, not really. However I got a lot of information from this web site. This web site has it all, facts about the death penalty. The history of the execution in the United State. Issues concerning the death penalty. Reports of current events/case concerning the death penalty. This site also stats statistics for state by state crimes punishable by execution.
[ 5] Mc Cormick, John. " ?.
[6]Apr 27th 2007, From The Economist print edition. "More and more countries have doubts about the death penalty". This site deals with current issue concerning lethal injection.The passage below is a copy from the link above it states what the link is about. " to of after The
[7] This web site is about executions, news, facts, arguments about execution. People can post why the believe, OR not believe in executions. I like this site because you get to hear what peoples take on the whole issue. Also you get ideas as to what you can add to your paper, such as questions and concerns my audience may have.
[8]Scott,Langley, dir. video/film shot November 2005 This web sites has a video narrated by: Warden Mervin Polk. Warden M.Polk gives a tour of the final day on death row. The preparation of an execution. I found this web site very interesting. This site gives someone who has never seen inside a prison. It also gives you a chance to see what a person on death row, last hours are spent. The thing I like most about this web site is, what Warden Mervin Polk comment, when asked by Langley, "Whee do you rank, part of the death penalty in the terms of the difficulties in your job, Hard?".Warden Mervin Polk said, "Its hard. The only personal thing I can say about ..say about is.. of it is of course you that... situations of that... nobody looks forward to have to deal with those types of situations its a matter of law, that we have to deal with. From a personal stand point, it's tuff to see people in that type of situation, where by law we have to do it." Director Scott, Langley has fought against execution since 1999. Langley works along with Amnesty International since 2004.
[9] Livingston, Brad. Executive Director Collier, Bryan. Deputy Executive Director Texas Department of Criminal Justice 209 West 14th Street. 5th Floor, Price Daniel Building Austin, Texas 78701 Another useful web site is the Texas Execution Information. What was interesting about this web site, is that they've kept records on all their inmates and their last statements. They provide information about each prisoner, and their stats whether they are currently on death row or the decease.
[10] J. Weisberg, " The
This site had information re-guarding the ingredient's in the lethal injection, and what each chemicals does.
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