As the debate over the death penalty continues, Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida is pushing to end the requirement for a unanimous jury vote in death penalty cases within the state. The move comes after the shooter in the 2018 Parkland school shooting escaped the death penalty in 2022. At the Florida Sheriffs Association Winter Conference on Monday, Governor DeSantis argued that even a “supermajority” would be better than the required unanimous vote.
What’s the Current Death Penalty Law in Florida?
Currently, in Florida, all 12 jurors must vote for the death penalty, and a judge must approve it, in order for someone to receive capital punishment. Governor DeSantis expressed his frustration with this system, stating that “we can’t be in a situation where one person can just derail this.”
Why Change the Death Penalty Law?
The Governor also proposed that individuals who would never opt for the death penalty should not be permitted on juries when the matter will be voted on. He stated that “if you will never administer the punishment, you just can’t be on the jury.”
Death Penalty Laws Vary By State
The death penalty remains a contentious issue, with different states having different laws and procedures in place. Some states, such as Alabama and Delaware, have recently passed laws that make it easier to impose the death penalty, while other states, like California, have placed moratoriums on executions. Some states, like Oregon, have abolished the death penalty altogether.
Should the Death Penalty Be Changed?
As a conservative blogger, it is important to note that while the death penalty may be an effective deterrent against crime, it is essential to ensure that the legal process is fair and just. The Governor Ron DeSantis proposal to change the requirement for a unanimous jury vote in death penalty cases is a significant change and should be carefully considered in light of the potential consequences. I do agree with him though, I believe that a “super-majority” is fair.
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