On Monday night, the Missouri Senate spent a considerable amount of time discussing Missouri’s use of capital punishment. As many know, the death penalty is still enforced in this state, and has been for many years. The penalty, which the state treats the respect it deserves, is reserved for only the most heinous, atrocious crimes committed against others.
This session, legislation—Senate Bill 816—has been filed by a Republican senator that would abolish the death penalty in Missouri and instead enact life without the possibility of parole. I respect the stances of all my fellow colleagues, regardless of whether or not I agree with them. I commend the sponsor of the legislation for holding true to his beliefs.
I do not approve or support this effort, though.
Being a former sheriff, I have witnessed first-hand the scenes of these crimes. I’ve seen families destroyed by senseless acts of violence. I’ve seen mothers and fathers crushed at knowing their child died such a brutal death. These are things you don’t forget. These are crimes for which the only just punishment is death.
During the debate, I made a point of reminding my fellow legislators who the real victims are in these circumstances: not the perpetrators, but those who lost their lives. I don’t want this to be forgotten. When a crime so atrocious is committed it warrants the consideration of capital punishment, we can’t forget about the victims’ families, and the pain they’ve endured by during the worst act of violence a person can do to another.
I’m not alone in this view. I’ve heard from very few, including legislators on Monday night, who want to abolish the death penalty. There is no compelling reason to end this sentence of justice for first-degree murderers, and if put to a vote of the people, I think most citizens would agree.
As a pro-life advocate, I understand the sanctity of life. This is something different, though. These are brutal crimes where victims suffered. I will always stand on the side of victims and support the death penalty in Missouri. I appreciate the debate, but this issue comes down to a very personal sense of justice. For me, the choice is simple: The death penalty is an appropriate punishment for the worst crimes imaginable.
Please feel free to contact my office if you have any questions regarding legislative activity in Jefferson City.