The report is that the US Army will seek the death penalty for Major Nidal Hasan, the accused killer at Fort Hood, in Texas. My understanding is that the Military uses lethal injection.
For the record, I am against the death penalty, except if we think some enemy agent has actionable intelligence that he or she might be able to pass to a confederate. That position applies here.
On the other hand, a life sentence or series of life sentences will not be much comfort for Major Hasan, as he is, reportedly, paralyzed. I say let him wait to meet his maker, allowing him time to consider his crimes, repent of his crimes and perhaps experience a form of metanoia.
And, there is always the possibility that he is criminally (or actually) insane, in which case the death penalty seems to represent an uncivilized reaction to his internal contradictions and distractions.
Some might think he should get the death penalty soon after a trial and conviction. I would advise, given all the "Nazi" state talk WRT Arizona, that such an approach should be eschewed, as being too much like the trial and execution of the White Rose defendants and the 20 July conspirators.
Regards — Cliff
2 comments:
Although Hassan is clearly one of those folks that, as they say in Texas, "Just needs killin' " to do so accomplishes no viable objective for American society, and especially the victims of his reprehensible act. His mandated death will be carried out in relative secrecy and will provide absolutely no "solace" or emotional "cleansing" for those who are offended or aggrieved by his act.
While it is by no means a humane form of punishment, Hassan and persons of his ilk should be expeditiously tried, convicted, and sentenced to spend the balance of their life in a super-max prison. In the super-max, one is confined to a windowless cell for 23 out of each 24 hour period and during their one hour of time outside the cell, they are denied any human contact.
I am completely opposed to any finding or even suggesting a finding of insanity or conduct arising from some mental defect. Murder, especially multiple murder is by definition an "insane" act.
UPDATE:
It is reported:
"A quick note. Fort Hood issued a statement this morning denying that prosecutors have decided to seek the death penalty for Hasan. That won't be decided until the Article 32, to begin June 1, concludes. A post public affairs officer this morning stopped short of saying that Hasan's attorney, John Galligan, inaccurately characterized the notice he received earlier this week of aggravating factors in the case. The PAO, Chris Haug, blamed some media outlets for writing inaccurate headlines and said "the story is not being characterized right." He said a short CNN story was accurate. Haug said, "It's reported as if a decision has been made, and a decision has not been made."
My source claims to know Chris and is willing to take him at his word.
So, we wait.
Regards — Cliff
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