If it wasn’t for the
by Sean Hackbarth
If it wasn’t for the September 11 attacks, Andrea Yates would be America’s biggest story. The mother who killed her five children was found competent to stand trial.
The angle that interests me is if she’s found guilty, should she be put to death. The crimes took place in Texas, so the death penalty is virtually assured. But should it be? After seeing the carnage of 9.11, many anti-death penalty advocates are all gung-ho about going to war and seeking retribution. How does that differ from “seeking justice” by killing Andrea Yates? I’m still opposed to the death penalty, but that view must be reconciled with my hawkish stance internationally.
“Jurors: Texas Mom Competent for Trial” [via Drudge]
