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I do support the death penalty under certain conditions.
FIRST: There must be a law that requires that the state pay for and test any DNA evidence available in the case. The same should go for any other forensic tests that can be run to make absolutely sure that the person being put to death is the correct one.
SECOND: That no joy is taken in the execution. It should be a solemn thing and it is always a tragedy when a life has gone so far astray that execution is necessary.
THIRD: That there is no excess suffering or torture. There is no sense in doing that.
I believe that murder, rape, and treason should be the three capital crimes. These are the crimes that can do the worst damage to lives and frankly, I don't think we can trust these kinds of people to go back out into society once they have done something like that. It isn't hatred that makes me say that--but rather the simple fact that we have no way to know whether or not they continue to pose a danger.
But, as I said in the other thread, if such a criminal truly has reformed, that will also come with an understanding that the earthly consequence of death is only temporary. I believe that a redeemed criminal will be taken to Heaven. Don't you remember the one man crucified alongside Jesus who asked for and received that promise? He committed the crime and served an earthly penalty for it--but you can be sure that man is still enjoying the blessings of Heaven. That is for God to know (not for me), and I trust that He will not withhold that from anyone who is truly deserving.
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