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    Pro-Death Penalty
    Best of the Rest (Anti-Death Penalty)
    General Reference, Directories & Links
    Pro & Con: Articles, Essays, & Argument
    History of Capital Punishment
    Execution and Death Row Statistics
    Legal Research / Capital Defense
    Legal Issues
    Pardon, Commutation, Clemency
    Religion and the Church
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    Wrongful Convictions
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    Execution of the Mentally Ill
    Politics and the Death Penalty
    Juveniles and the Death Penalty
    Race and Class Bias
    Women and the Death Penalty
    Deterrence and Incapacitation
    Cost (Death Penalty vs. Life Imprisonment)
    After Release from Death Row
    Victim's Families
    Death Row Inmate Homepages / Memorials
    Mumia Abu-Jamal
    Dead Man Walking
    Execution by Consent / Waiver of Appeals
    Famous / Historical Death Penalty Trials
    Notorious Murderers, Serial Killers
    Death Penalty Humor & Curiosity
    Photos, Drawings, Music, Movies, and Art
    International
    Foreign Nationals
    State/Regional Sites
    Federal and U.S. Military Death Penalty
    Miscellaneous

    Top 10%

    PRO-DEATH PENALTY

    Pro-Death Penalty.Com (Justice For All)
    A comprehensive pro-death penalty site with articles, links, and up-to-date death penalty info and news.

    Wesley Lowe's Pro-Death Penalty Homepage

    Thoughtful pro-death penalty essay addressing arguments re: deterrence, cost, racism, DP vs LWOP, morality, christianity, constitutionality, and risk of wrongful executions.

    Clark County Indiana Prosecuting Attorney

    Comprehensive information on the Death Penalty in Indiana, including statistics, executions since 1900, current death row (with photos), Indiana death penalty laws, history, and methods of execution, with factual and legal summaries of all death penalty cases since 1977; Up-to-date information on the Death Penalty in the United States; Over 1000 death penalty links arranged by subject, including 75 pro-death penalty links.

    The Bible's Teaching on Capital Punishment by Logos Christian Resources

    Online ministry with citations from Old and New Testament supporting Capital Punishment, David L. Brown Th.M. (1992)

    The Ultimate Punishment: A Defense (PBS Frontline)

    Scholarly defense of capital punishment by Ernest van den Haag, Professor of Jurisprudence and Public Policy, Fordham University. (1986)

    Capital Punishment: Give Us Liberty and Give Them Death

    Two quality research papers on the death penalty in general and deterrence in particular by David Bragdon. (1997)

    Criminal Justice Legal Foundation

    A California-based nonprofit public interest law organization dedicated to restoring a balance between the rights of crime victims and the criminally accused. Includes summaries of recent cases of interest in California, U.S. Court of Appeals, and U.S. Supreme Court, with index of amicus curiae briefs filed by CJLF.

    Gallup Poll showing 66% - 28% in favor of Death Penalty (February 2000)

    Public Opinion Supports Death Penalty - The Gallup Organization, Princeton, NJ; (In Favor or Oppose DP? DP or LWOP? Imposed Too Often or Not Enough? Has Innocent Person Ever Been Sentenced to Death?)
    See also "Support for Death Penalty Drops to Lowest Level in 19 Years, Although Still High at 66%," by Frank Newport.

    More blacks are backing capital punishment now: Fears escalate even as crime rates drop

    Detroit News article by Wayne Woolley (October 11, 1996), describing the increase in black support for the death penalty from 40% in 1974 to 57% in 1996, according to polls taken by the National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago.

    Capital Punishment: Life or Death

    Research papers on Capital Punishment written by University of Texas students, both pro and con, from Tonya. (1996)

    The Anti-Death Penalty Movement has Failed

    Interesting and thorough essay written by a strong opponent of Capital Punishment, Defense Attorney Andrew Hammel, who flatly states that the anti-DP movement has failed and offers suggestions on how to get it back on the right track: Admit failure and take responsibility for it; Avoid bogus claims of innocence; Do not make martyrs or heroes out of death row inmates; De-emphasize demonstrations; Don't rely on the law, our main focus should be on changing public opinion first.

    A Response to the Bedau and Radelet Study (Justice For All)

    Excerpt from Justice For All article "Death Penalty and Sentencing Information," responding to the Bedau and Radelet Study on the risk of wrongful execution.

    Race, Sentencing, and the Death Penalty (Justice For All)

    Excerpt from Justice For All article "Death Penalty and Sentencing Information," thoroughly addressing the alleged racism in the administration of the death penalty in the United States.

    Incapacitation and Deterrent Effects of the Death Penalty (Justice For All)

    Excerpt from Justice For All article "Death Penalty and Sentencing Information," thoroughly addressing the general and specific deterrent effects of the death penalty in the United States.

    The Costs of LWOP versus the Death Penalty (Justice For All)

    Excerpt from Justice For All article "Death Penalty and Sentencing Information," thoroughly addressing the financial costs of the death penalty as opposed to life imprisonment without parole in the United States.

    Christianity and the Death Penalty (Justice For All)

    Excerpt from Justice For All pro-death penalty article "Death Penalty and Sentencing Information," thoroughly addressing religion and the death penalty, with significant Biblical citations and references, and commentary from Justice For All

    Gary Graham (Texas) and the Anti-Death Penalty Movement: A Case Study Of Lies (Justice For All)

    "Hollywood, Murder, and Texas - Death Row Inmate Gary Graham and the Anti-Death Penalty Movement: A Case Study of Lies, Half-Truths and Intimidation." (1994) Thorough Justice For All article detailing the fraud of Hollywood and the "movement," and their campaign of disinformation.

    The Death Penalty in Black and White by Dudley Sharp (Justice For All)

    Thorough article from Dudley Sharp (Justice For All), published in the weekly E-Zine IntellectualCapital.Com, addressing the alleged bias and racism in the administration of the death penalty in the United States. (June 1999)

    The Risk of Wrongful Execution of the Innocent (Wesley Lowe)

    Excerpt from Pro-Death Penalty article, addressing the risk of executing the innocent.

    "Defining Innocence," by Dudley Sharp. (The Record Online, Letter to Editor November 19, 1999.

    Short letter questioning the exaggerated claims of Death Penalty opponents, regarding the number of factually "innocent" death row inmates.

    Life Without Parole is Not Good Enough to Insure Public Safety. (Wesley Lowe)

    Excerpt from Pro-Death Penalty article, addressing LWOP as an unacceptable alternative to the death penalty.

    The Morality of Capital Punishment. (Wesley Lowe)

    Excerpt from Pro-Death Penalty article, addressing the morality and philosophy of the death penalty.

    Racism and Capital Punishment (Wesley Lowe)

    Excerpt from Pro-Death Penalty article, addressing alleged racism in the application of the death penalty.

    Rebutting Cliched Arguments Against Capital Punishment. (Wesley Lowe)

    Excerpt from Pro-Death Penalty article, rebutting cliched arguments against capital punishment.

    The Deterrent Effect of Capital Punishment (Wesley Lowe)

    Excerpt from Pro-Death Penalty article, addressing the deterrent effects of capital punishment.

    Capital Punishment and its Cost (Wesley Lowe)

    Excerpt from Pro-Death Penalty article, addressing the financial costs of the death penalty.

    "Anarchism and Capital Punishment" a pro-death penalty essay by Benjamin R. Tucker (1926)

    Excerpts from the book, "Individual Liberty: Selections From the Writings of Benjamin R. Tucker," emphasizing the position that those who call executions by the state "murder" are illogical and absurd. (1926)

    "Death on Hold" by Dudley Sharp (Ft. Worth Star-Telegram.Com February 5, 2000)

    Editorial by Dudley Sharp of Justice for All on the question: In the wake of the Illinois moratorium on executions, should Texas consider something similar?

    "Capital Punishment: Three Good Reasons for Supporting the Death Penalty"

    The Death Penalty honors God, is a deterrent to crime, and is good for the environment, this short religious-oriented essay argues, by James L. Melton (1997)

    MurderVictims.Com

    A victims resource from "Justice For All," serving as a memorial to the many innocent victims of violent crime and a source for murder statistics, news items, discussion and information. Places the focus back on the victim instead of the perpetrator. Victim survivors can come here to find help, ask questions, give and get advice.

    The Costs of Capital Punishment and the Cost of Life Imprisonment

    Short article on the exhorbitant costs of LWOP by Lila Hoffman-Thome (August 9,1996).

    A Letter to Missouri Governor Carnahan On The Pardon of Darrell Mease

    A thoughtful letter by Charlene Hall (Justice For all) written to Missouri Governor Carnahan after the commutation of sentence for death row inmate Darrell Mease upon the visit by Pope John Paul II to St. Louis.

    The Wall Street Journal: In Support of the Death Penalty

    Articles from the Wall Street Journal: "Why the Death Penalty Is Fair" by Walter Berns and Joseph Bessette, January 9, 1998; "Why the Unabomber Must Die" by James Tarant, January 6, 1998.

    The Death Penalty: A Means to Curb Violent Crime in the United States

    Pro-Death Penalty research paper by University of Virginia student Chris Armstrong (1996).

    National Center For Policy Analysis: Idea House (Dallas/Washington 1997)

    Series of Pro-Death Penalty articles, including: Condemned Prisoners Opting To Die; Myth Of Racism In Death Penalty; Executions And Death Sentences Trailing Off; Upholding The Death Penalty; Death Penalty Questioned; Even With Death Penalty, Most Killers Walk; Capital Punishment Saves Lives; Race & Capital Punishment ; Enlarging the Death Penalty.

    John Stuart Mill - "In Favor of Capital Punishment" (1868)

    1868 speech in English Parliament by John Stuart Mill opposing proposed abolition of death penalty in England.

    Capital Punishment: A Death Penalty Study Outline

    Detailed pro-death penalty study outline by Gary Henry from Brasstacks Bible Studies (1999)

    Justice Against Crime Talking

    An organization created by the father of a murder victim, dedicated to bringing judicial reform on behalf of law and order and crime victims, with an emphasis on California laws and legislation. Espousing the motto: "Timely retribution is Truly Justice Against Crime." (Last updated 1997; formerly Citizens for Law and Order Talking)

    Is Capital Punishment Sanctioned by Divine Authority?

    Long, pro-death penalty essay, heavy on philosophy and religion, by Alexander Campbell of the Restoration Movement (1846).

    Capital Punishment: Give It a Chance

    Pro-Death Penalty research paper written by University of Virginia student Steve Brinker.

    Death Penalty Serves Justice to Victims by John Hart

    Short pro-death penalty essay by Kansas State student John Hart published in student newspaper. (1995)

    "A Killer Lives: A Child Dies," (Ed & Whoopi, go home and shut up!) by Jeff Jacobi. (Boston Globe, January 12, 1996)

    Letter from a friend, David Murray, on the murder of a 13 year old boy by a paroled murderer in Virginia. "What I want to know is, where's Whoopi Goldberg and Ed Asner and maybe Norman Mailer? Why aren't they here, hitting this hard, pointing out the miscarriage of justice?

    "Death Penalty Shouldn't Be for Cop Killers Only," by Jeff Jacoby. (Boston Globe, August 28, 1997)

    Short article making the point that one who willfully murders a cashier is no less evil than the murderer of a state trooper.

    "In Defense of an Eye for an Eye," by Jeff Jacoby. (Boston Globe, June 24, 1997)

    Short article defending the ancient biblical phrase. Fairness, restraint, avoidance of needless cruelty, an insistence on punishing only the guilty -- these are the ideas with which "an eye for an eye" enlightened and uplifted human law.

    "Justice for a Grieving Father," by Jeff Jacoby. (Boston Globe, October 7, 1997)

    Short article describing the efforts of a father of a murdered Massachusetts child, to have the killers trial moved to federal court in order that a death sentence may be pursued.

    Does Capital Punishment Deter Crime?

    Short essay on the positive deterrent effect of capital punishment with a moral that you can twist statistics to prove almost anything. By Jay Johansen. (1998)

    A Review of Capital Punishment: Is the death penalty a deterrent against crime?

    Pro-Death Penalty essay by Nicholas Fabian.

    Privatizing Capital Punishment

    A short response to an anti-death penalty editorial by the New Australian. (February 1988)

    "Justifiable Retribution" a pro-death penalty essay by Diablo Valley College student, Dave Thomas.

    Short, but well-reasoned pro-death penalty essay by a university chemistry major.

    On Capital Punishment: Is the State No Better Than the Murderer?

    Excellent short essay answering the often-repeated ACLU theme that when the State executes a murderer, it is no better than the murderer. By Jay Johansen. (1995)

    "Objections to Capital Punishment Answered," by John A. Kohler, III.

    Short biblical answers to common objections raised against capital punishment. (Morris Fork, West Virginia Baptist Church)

    "The Sword of the Revenger: The Biblical Basis For Capital Punishment," by Greg Loren Durand.

    Lengthy and well-referenced pro-death penalty essay based upon the fundamentals of Christianity. (1995)

    Top Misinterpretations of the Bible - Capital Punishment and the Death Penalty

    Short biblical responses to the biblical arguments: "Thou shalt not kill" and "He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her" by The Founding Fathers.

    On Capital Punishment

    Good pro-death penalty article by Tom R. Guilmette of Marist College.

    On Capital Punishment and the Death Penalty (Canada)

    Canadian site from the Ontario Consultants on Religious Tolerance with a good discussion of pro and con, with emphasis on religion and with links.

    Capital Punishment and Christianity (Wesley Lowe)

    Thorough Pro-Death Penalty article with significant Biblical citations and references, with commentary from Wesley Lowe.

    The Pope Versus the Death Penalty by Fr. David C. Trosch. (1999)

    Pro-Death Penalty essay criticizing the anti-death penalty policies of Pope John Paul II, with links and citations to the Sequential Authority Structure and the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

    "On Rights and Capital Punishment," by Russell Madden. (1996)

    Response letter written to George H. Smith, author of an anti-death penalty article apperaring in Liberty Magazine, November 1996.

    Pro-Capital Punishment by Kerby Anderson of Probe Ministries International

    Thoughtful pro-death penalty essay addressing the arguments of abolitionists, with emphasis on religion by Kerby Anderson of Probe Ministries International.

    Mishpatim: On Delivering Punishment to Fit the Crime

    Thoughts on the Torah and punishment by Rabbi Stephen Pearce, Jewish Bulletin of Northern California.(1996)

    Bring Back Capital Punishment (Canada)

    Pro-Death Penalty Canadian site with links.

    Justice 4 Police Officer Daniel Faulkner (Victim of Mumia Abu Jamal)

    Website dedicated to the Philadelphia Police Officer murdered by Mumia Abu Jamal, the prolific "journalist" convicted and sentenced to death in 1982, who has mounted an aggressive web campaign of disinformation. Facts from the trial and appeal are provided to dispel myths created by that campaign.

    Tribute to Police Officer Daniel Faulkner (Victim of Mumia Abu Jamal)

    Website tribute to the Philadelphia Police Officer murdered by Mumia Abu Jamal, the prolific "journalist" convicted and sentenced to death in 1982, who has mounted an aggressive web campaign of disinformation. This site describes the fund raising tribute dinner in the officer's name, from Philadelphia attorney Michael A. Smerconish.

    What About Capital Punishment?

    Short pro-death penalty biblical essay by Glenn Dunehew.

    What Does the Bible Say?: Capital Punishment

    Short pro-death penalty biblical essay from the Faith Independent Baptist Church. (Florida)

    Does God Support the Death Penalty? (New Testament Support)

    Short pro-death penalty biblical essay by Doug Bullen.

    "No Ban Needed: Death Penalty Foes Should Abandon Hypocrisy," by Ron Moore, District Attorney.(Charlotte News, June 6, 1999)

    Short essay from a North Carolina Prosecutor scolding the hypocrisy of the anti-death penalty movement and its request for a moratorium.

    The Death Penalty Debate by Bob Envart Live

    Detailed pro-death penalty biblical essay by conservative news/talk show host Bob Enyart.

    "Capital Punishment, Justice Served" by Matthew D. Bartlett (Students for a Better America)

    Short Pro-Death Penalty article, arguing that capital punishment is not just an option, but a necessity. From the University of Colorado Students for a Better America.

    "Should There Be a Death Penalty?" by Snohomish County, Washington Sheriff Rick Bart. (March 1998)

    Short Pro-Death Penalty opinion article from the Monroe, Washington Weekly.

    The Critical Justification for Society Imposing Punishment.

    Very short statement with the thesis that all punishments are to keep society from falling into the belief that the only way they can get justice is to exact a personal revenge. (Gil Warren)

    Enforce Death Sentences for Cold-Blooded Killers

    Pro-Death Penalty article by UCLA Political Science student, Aanand N. Patel for student newspapaer. (1996)

    Party Platform of the British Democratic Dictatorship Party.

    Platform strongly advocating the reinstitution of capital punishment in Britian to help with the crime problems of that country. "Why do we waste our country's money on paying for criminals to live in "hotels"? Why not execute those who have committed major crimes instead?"

    The Death Chamber

    Collection of Death Penalty and serial murder links from a pro-capital punishment author, with interesting sound effects.

    BEST OF THE REST (ANTI-DEATH PENALTY)

    Death Penalty Information Center
    Probably the single most comprehensive and authoritative internet rersource on the death penalty, including hundreds of anti-death penalty articles, essays, and quotes on issues of deterrence, cost, execution of the innocent, racism, public opinion, women, juveniles, mentally retarded, and more; Statistics on death rows and executions state-by-state, inmate-by-inmate; Up-to-date death penalty news from around the country. (Unfortunately, this site makes absolutely no effort to present any pro-death penalty views, and liberally spreads propaganda and rhetoric on behalf of "the cause.")

    A Capital Defender's Toolbox

    Written and edited by Karl R. Keys, a Massachusetts defense attorney for the condemned, created to assist defense attorneys who represent those facing a death sentence. This site is one of the most comprehensive free legal sites on the web, offering hundreds of links to assist in legal research, and hundreds more to anti-death penalty articles and publications on the web; Appellate briefs, summaries of recent death penalty cases, even a section on legal humor.

    Focus on the Death Penalty (Univ Alaska Anchorage)

    Established by the Justice Center at the University of Alaska Anchorage in the wake of a debate on whether to introduce capital punishment to Alaska. Its expressed purpopse is to give a full picture, using existing Internet resources, of the complex issues surrounding capital punishment and its application, and does a commendable job of meeting that purpose. Hundreds of articles and links (some pro-death penalty), history and statistics, issues and organizations.

    Links Toward Death Penalty Abolition (Prison Law Page)

    A project of the Prison Law Page. Large collection of anti-death penalty and prison links from the perspective of the inmate; in frames and nicely arranged by category.

    Anti-Death Penalty Information & Resources (American Society of Criminologists)

    Large collection of anti-death penalty links and papers; statistics, FAQ, women on death row, wrongful executions, death row inmate homepages, Bureau of Justice Capital Punishment 1989-97.

    Death Penalty News & Updates from Southern Methodist University

    Up-to-date execution statistics and alerts; U.S. Executions since 1977 by name, date, state, and victim(s); Death Row Inmate Homepages and Links.

    Death Penalty and Religion Links by The Theology Library

    Thorough collection of 79 mainly religious death penalty links on the web, almost entirely anti-death penalty, put together by Gerald Darring, teacher at a catholic high school in Alabama.

    Capital Punishment 1993-98 (Bureau of Justice Statistics)

    Yearly publication of the U.S. Department of Justice with detailed statistics and history of the death penalty in the U.S. Accurate source for any and all papers and writings, on both sides of the issue. Availability lags approximately one year behind.

    Capital Punishment: The Ultimate Injustice - A Resource Site.

    Thorough anti-death penalty site, with hundreds of links to issues, articles, art, and Supreme Court decisions, nicely arranged and formatted by topic.

    Frontline: Angel on Death Row with Sister Helen Prejean

    The real life cases from the movie "Dead Man Walking"; Interviews with Sister Helen Prejean and victims; Pros and Cons of the Death Penalty; Chronology of Capital Punishment. (From PBS series Frontline 1998)

    DeathPenalty.Net

    Strong anti-death penalty site with discussion of race, juveniles, women, wrongful executions, ABA moratorium, and statements from most major religious organizations, with links and resources, developed and maintained by a network of national organizations opposed to capital punishment. (no effort to include pro-death penalty views)

    TheElectricChair.com

    One of the few death penalty sites without an agenda, retaining a sense of humor, albeit a weird one. Nevertheless includes useful death penalty information; biology of electrocution, botched executions, interview with designer of Sing Sing electric chair, tour of death row, movie clips of Richard Speck in prison and photos of Ted Bundy in the morgue.

    GENERAL REFERENCE, DIRECTORIES, AND LINKS

    Death Penalty Information Center
    CourtTV Library: The Death Penalty - History, Statistics and Articles
    Death Penalty Links, History, Statistics, Pro & Con Arguments from the Close Up Foundation. (1999)
    Pro-Death Penalty Links from Sean Smith. (83)
    Links Toward Death Penalty Abolition (Prison Law Page)
    Cecil Greek's Death Penalty Links
    Ira Wilsker's Corrections, Prison, and Capital Punishment Related Sites
    Yahoo Full Coverage News: The Death Penalty. (News Stories, Magazine Articles, Links)
    Derechos Death Penalty Links
    Amnesty: On the Death Penalty
    Death Penalty and Religion Links by The Theology Library (79)
    Ethics Update: Death Penalty Links
    Abolish Discussion List Archives 1996-present. (Gail Carelli and Moses Klein)
    Amnesty International and the Death Penalty (1999)
    Amnesty International Publications and News Releases 1996-1999.
    Campaign to End the Death Penalty Homepage
    Canadian Coalition Against the Death Penalty
    Death Penalty Links from Canadian Anti-Death Penalty Group. (65)
    Fight the Death Penalty in USA Homepage
    Death Penalty Links from the AlaPadre.Net (50)
    Death Penalty Links (Ky Public Defender)
    Death Penalty Links (University of Evansville Criminal Justice)
    Colorado College Tutt Library Death Penalty Links. (25)
    Death Penalty Information & Resources (American Society of Criminologists)
    Reckoning the Death Penalty (ABC News)
    Frontline: The Execution of Clifford Boggess (1999)
    Frontline: The Death Penalty - Pro and Con (1998)
    American Bar Association Focus on Law Studies: The Death Penalty. (Spring 1997)
    National Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty Homepage
    ACLU Death Penalty Homepage
    ACLU Death Penalty Briefs
    The JusticeNet Prison Issues: Death Penalty Links
    Campaign for the Abolition of the Death Penalty Homepage Links (41)
    Lamp of Hope Death Row Journal
    The Florida Death Penalty Page from the Florida State Univ. ACLU
    Professor David's Anti-Death Penalty Resources
    DeathPenalty.Net Homepage
    Cybrary Anti-Death Penalty Links from Talk Justice.(37)
    Death Penalty Links from Ohio University, John McVicker.(31)
    Cornell Law School Death Penalty Project
    Death Penalty News and Updates from Southern Methodist University (Up-to-Date)
    Focus on the Death Penalty (Univ Alaska Anchorage)
    About.Com Capital Punishment Links (64)
    Policy.Com: Links to Death Penalty Articles
    Death Penalty Links (pro and con) from Sean's Legal Resources.
    Death Penalty Links (pro and con) from Stockton College of New Jersey Virtual Library. (31)
    Death Penalty Links, Pro & Con, from Political U.S.A.
    American Humanist Association: Anti-Death Penalty Links
    Capital Punishment Links from Brasstacks
    Massachusetts: Anti-Death Penalty Action Team
    Rominger Legal Services Death Penalty Links
    The Death Chamber
    Citizens United for Alternatives to the Death Penalty
    Moratorium Now!, a Campaign of Equal Justice USA, A Project of the Quixote Center
    ProActivist.Com Anti-Death Penalty Links.
    Anti-Death Penalty Links from Joe's Peace Pages. (54)
    Decisions, Decisions Online. (Teaching the Death Penalty)
    Ohio University Library: Death Penalty Definitions and Resources
    Anti-Death Penalty Commentary, Quotes, and Links by Rossy.
    Death Penalty Links, Pro and Con, from Weid's World. (60)
    Anti-Death Penalty Links from Trans Global Enterprises. (35)
    The International Abolitionist Directory (for individuals/with search engine)
    American Humanist Association: Social Issues - Anti-Capital Punishment Links
    Death Penalty Quotes and Links from The Conservative Digest. (25)
    Deathrow.just.nu - Anti-Death Row Site with Recent Anti-Death Penalty News Reports
    Anti-Death Penalty Links from Pennsylvania Death Row Prisoner Nicholas Yarris.
    Anti-Death Penalty Links from Barbara's Gate.
    Speaking Out Against Capital Punishment from Trish Murphy.
    Anti-Death Penalty Links from Moses Klein. (University of Wisconsin)
    Death Penalty Links from Ezdick (University of Washington). (55)
    Death Penalty Links (University of North Texas, Criminal Justice Dept.)
    Death Penalty Links from LartopGina.Com (12)
    Anti-Death Penalty Links from Fairtrials.Org. (24)
    Death Penalty Links from the Political Insider. (51)
    Death Penalty Links from the Law Office of Kim Kruglick. (41)
    Death Penalty Links from LawLinks.Com. (16)
    The Death Penalty in books, films, and songs from Lorenzo and Paolo.
    The Abolitionist Bookstore
    Death Penalty Annotated Bibliography (Univ Michigan)
    Death Penalty Links/Outline from Links2Go.
    Death Penalty Books from Amazon.Com
    Librarian's Guide to the Best Information on the Net - Capital Punishment
    Death Row 1998, Published by Bobit Publishing Company
    "Death Row Ink," an interview with the editors of DEATH ROW, from L.A. Weekly (May 1999),
    Anti-Death Penalty Books, Films, and Law Reviews, from the Southern Center for Human Rights (1997)
    Anti-Death Penalty Books, Law Reviews, and Homicide Studies. (Death Penalty Information Center, 1998)
    Books, References, Links, and other Sources on Capital Punishment (Boston Univ)
    A Short List of Recent Anti-Death Penaty Books

    PRO & CON: ARTICLES, ESSAYS, AND ARGUMENT

    Pro-Death Penalty Talking Points and Debate Issues (Justice for All)
    Death Penalty Links, History, Statistics, Pro & Con Arguments from the Close Up Foundation. (1999)
    Death Penalty Term Papers - Univ of Texas (pro & con)
    American Bar Association Focus on Law Studies: The Death Penalty. (Spring 1997)
    "Capital Punishment on Trial: Which Side Is Correct?" a Death Penalty Research Paper by Theodore Kamis
    Pro-Death Penalty Research Paper (David Bragdon)
    The TalkSpot News OnLine: The Death Penalty Debate (Real Audio Format, 1:18)
    Why the Death Penalty is Fair (Wall Street Journal 01-12-98)
    "Capital Punishment: Give It a Chance" by Steve Brinker
    Pro-Capital Punishment by Tom Guilmette (Marist College)
    Pro-Death Penalty Statement of Michael A. Smerconish to the Philadelphia City Council. (1996)
    A Tooth for a Tooth by Jay Johansen
    "Capital Punishment: Dud Arguments" from John Spragge (Univ Michigan)
    In Favor of Capital Punishment (John Stuart Mill 1868)
    Life Without Parole is Not Good Enough to Insure Public Safety. (Wesley Lowe)
    The Morality of Capital Punishment. (Wesley Lowe)
    "Anarchism and Capital Punishment" a pro-death penalty essay by Benjamin R. Tucker (1926)
    Rebutting Cliched Arguments Against Capital Punishment. (Wesley Lowe)
    "Justifiable Retribution" a pro-death penalty essay by Diablo Valley College student, Dave Thomas.
    "Billy Budd and Capital Punishment: A Tale of Three Centuries," by H. Bruce Franklin. (1997)
    "The Death Penalty in the U.S.," a web paper by Lara Lewis. (University of Southern Mississippi)
    The Death Penalty Quiz (National or Georgia Version), from Amnesty International Group 75.
    The Death Penalty in the 21st Century. (American University Conference Transcript, 1995)
    The Case Against the Death Penalty by Hugo Adam Bedau.
    The Case Against the Death Penalty by Hugo Adam Bedau.
    The Hanging Judges (of the Renquist Court) (The Nation, October 1996)
    "The Death Penalty: One Man's Opinion," by Jim McClosky. (The Angolite, October 1995)
    Justice Blackmun Dissenting Opinion in Callins v. Collins
    "Rethinking Abolitionism: What Do We Do With Henry?" by Thomas and Boehlefeld. (Northern Illinois University, 1991)
    The Case Against the Death Penalty by Michael Ross on Connecticut Death Row.
    "Arguments for Life and Death," by Honeyman & Ogloff. (Canada 1996)
    "Capital Punishment: Facts and Arguments" from John Spragge. (Univ Michigan)
    Talking Points. (Washington Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty)
    "Moral and Pragmatic Arguments Against Capital Punishment," by Tom Wilson.
    "Why Conservatives Should Oppose the Death Penalty," by Kenneth Haas. (University of Delaware)
    American Civil Liberties Union Briefing Paper #8.
    Strong Anti-Death Penalty Remarks by NYU Professor Anthony Amsterdam at the Marshall Awards. (April 27, 1998)
    "Capital Punishment," by George Bernard Shaw. (1948 Atlantic Monthly)
    "Lethal Objection," an anti-death penalty article by Charles Lane. (New Republic, March 2, 1998)
    Atlantic Monthly Articles on the Death Penalty from 1948, 1957, 1960, & 1994.
    "Hearing the Facts About the Death Penalty," by Julie Polter. (Sojourners Magazine, May 96)
    Short FAQ on the Death Penalty from Capitalism.Org.
    A Chat/Forum on Capital Punishment from About.Com.
    "Death, Legal and Illegal," by Daniel C. Maguire. (Atlantic Monthly Feb 1974)
    "Why the U.S. Should Abolish the Death Penalty" by Jon M. Apgar. (The Touchstone, February 1996)
    "The Death Penalty: Indefensible," by Allen H. Lutins.
    "Humility, Compassion and Death," by Jonathan Wallace. (The Ethical Spectacle, December 1997)
    "The Case Against Capital Punishment: Debunking the Arguments," from Creative Ideas.
    "Stop the Killing," an Opinion article by Eric Alterman. (Intellectual Capital.Com February 17, 2000)
    "The Death Penalty: The Price that Should Not be Paid," a web term paper from Virginia student Meha Shah.
    "Capital Punishment Has Too Many Disadvantages To Be Legal," a web term paper from N.J. student Steven Lee.
    "Agree or Disagree: A Capital Punishment Debate Project," from Fowlerville, Michigan high school students.
    A Capital Punishment Online Assignment from Gavilan College, California (Fall 1999)
    Capital Punishment Term Papers from Schoolpapers.Com
    The ACLU Abolitionist Newsletter (January 1996)
    "The Death Penalty Right or Wrong?" by News Matters. (electric chair photo)
    A Short Essay Against Capital Punishment from Derechos.
    National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Resolution Against the Death Penalty.
    "The Death Penalty: Right or Wrong, and Why," by Zandra "Mongoose" Ellis.
    "Capital Punishment: Has It Really Made a Difference?," a bibliography by Josh Barber. (Seattle, 1999)
    The Case to Abolish the Death Penalty by Amy.
    "Harsher Punishment for Crime is Not the Answer." (Canada Mennonites)
    Against the Death Penalty," from Libertarian Students at American Univeristy.
    Anti-Death Penalty Editorial: "Public Support Weakening," by Michael Kroll. (CSIndy.Com February 16, 2000)
    "Capital Punishment? Facing the facts about the death penalty," by Marcus Bullett.
    "An Eye for an Eye" by Yoon & Harrigan. (Reconciliation in a Culture of Vengence)
    "The Death Penalty, Right or Wrong?" a short essay by KAZ.
    "Against the American System of Capital Punishment," by Jack Greenberg. (Harvard Law Review Association, 1996)
    Welcome to The Anti-Death Penalty Petition Center. (Bear's Homepage)
    "Hypocritical Death Penalty" an Article by Noe Prado.
    "Limiting Death Penalty Appeals Makes Inexcusable Routine," by Brian Carnell. (Western Herald, October 2, 1991)
    "The Death Penalty: A View of Opposition" an essay by Doug Berry.
    Texas Amnesty International Against the Death Penalty in Texas and the U.S.A..
    "Capital Punishment is Immoral," by Brian Carnell in the Western Herald. (1992).
    "The Death Penalty: An Inquiry into Man's Mortal Weakness," from Think Quest.
    "Death Penalty: Morally Unacceptable" by Steve Homan.
    The (Anti) Capital Punishment Pages from Theodore Kamis.
    "The Morality of Murder: Capital Punishment in America," by Mark Krumholz. (Progressive Review, February 1995)
    "The Morality of the Death Penalty," by Yves Barbero. (1997)
    "Deadly Irony: Capital Punishment is Murder, Too," by Thaddeus Denton. (Watkins High School, Missouri 1998)
    A short anti-death penalty essay from Guercio's Philosophy. (1996)
    Welcome to Hell: "Death on Death Row," by Charla Greene. (September 1997)
    Welcome to Hell: "Misconceptions and the Death Penalty," by Charla Greene. (January 1997)
    Contemporary Moral Problems: Capital Punishment," by Michael J. Connelly. (Longview Community College)
    CCJ 6938: Advanced Seminar on the Death Penalty. (East Tennessee State University)
    CRJ 721 - Seminar on Capital Punishment. (East Tennessee State University)
    Morality, Politics, Philosophy, and Religion: "The Death Penalty" by Nathan Abdalla.
    "Abolish Capital Punishment" a short editorial by Fred E. Foldvary, Progress Report Editor.
    "Capital Punishment: A Gathering of Facts", a term paper.
    "Who Deserves Death," by Molly Ivins. (Texas Observer, July 4, 1997)
    "We Don't Believe in Capital Punishment," by Fred Kolkman for the PATRICK Crusade.
    "The Death Penalty: Terror Weapon of the State Against Its Citizens," from the New Union Party.
    D.E.A.T.H. Discontinue Executions Abolish the Hatred, by Don Lemaire.
    "The Death Penalty = Two Petty Words for Murder," from Laverne.
    Anti-Death Penalty Quotes by Respected Leaders.
    Famous Anti-Death Penalty Quotes from Rossy.
    Statements by the Most Compelling Opponents of the Death Penalty.
    Death Penalty Quotes by Camus, Blackmun, and Dieter.
    Jerry Brown Speaks Out Against the Death Penalty. (We The People, April 1996)
    A Conversation with Actor Mike Farrell, Anti-Death Penalty Advocate. (AOL Chat 1996)
    Celebrities Speak Out Against the Death Penalty. (J. Elders, M. Sheen, S. Rushdie, C. West, W. Brown)
    Capital Punishment (Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy)
    Definition of Terms Often Used in the Capital Punishment Debate. (Ohio University)

    HISTORY OF CAPITAL PUNISHMENT

    Focus on the Death Penalty: History & Recent Developments (Univ Alaska Anchorage)
    Established by the Justice Center at the University of Alaska Anchorage in the wake of a debate on whether to introduce capital punishment to Alaska. Historical emphasis is 1972 to present, with links to U.S. Supreme Court cases.

    Historical Methods of Torture and Execution

    Short summaries of methods from beheading to burning at the stake from ElectricChair.Com, with some photos and illustrations.

    "Old Sparky: History of the Electric Chair," by Craig Brandon. (2000)

    Up-to-date news, Frequently Asked Questions, Timeline, Interesting Facts, Photos of the Electric Chair, and a summary of a book by the same author: The Electric Chair: An Unnatural American History. (McFarland and Co., Inc. 288 pages, 50 illustrations. Cloth $39.95)

    Suspended Sentence: How the U.S. Almost Put Capital Punishment to Death

    Article from the March/April 1997 issue of Salt of the Earth magazine by Kevin Clarke. Excellent discussion of capital punishment in the 1970's, with factual details of Furman and Gregg. (anti-death penalty slant)

    Historical Overview of the Death Penalty from the Close Up Foundation. (Sharon C. Smith 1999)

    Excellent historical summary of the death penalty in America.

    "Capital Punishment 101: A 20th Century History," by J.J. Maloney. (Crime Magazine, February 8, 1999)

    Thorough article discussing capital punishment in the U.S. during the 20th century, summarizing the notorious trials of Sacco and Vanzetti, Bruno Hauptman, the Scottsboro Boys, the Rosenbergs, Caryl Chessman, and Karla Faye Tucker; Also outlines the rulings of the Warren and Renquist Supreme Courts.

    History of the Death Penalty

    "History of the Death Penalty" by Michael H. Reggio (PBS Frontline), excerpted from Society's Final Solution: A History and Discussion of the Death Penalty. From ancient China and the Code of Hammurabi to the Middle Ages and the American Colonies, a detailed discussion.

    Timeline Chronology of Capital Punishment

    Brief timeline presented by PBS Frontline:Angel on Death Row (1998).

    Capital Punishment: Rising Tide (Court TV)

    Very short historical summary of capital punishment from Court TV, emphasizing 1970's but noting first execution in 1622.

    The USA Execution Pages

    Complete list of executed prisoners in the United States from 1608-1967; List of executed prisoners from 1967 to present by name, date, state and method; British executions.

    "Just Revenge: Costs and Consequences of the Death Penalty" by Mark Costanzo

    Excerpts from "Chapter One: The Long and Bloody Past" of the book by Mark Costanzo, of Claremont McKenna College.

    The History of Capital Punishment

    Brief historical highlights of capital punishment in the U.S. from Ontario Consultants on Religious Tolerance.

    Federal Death Penalty History

    Brief history and status of the federal death penalty and death row from the Salt Lake Tribune.

    A Brief History of Alcatraz

    Brief history of the federal prison on Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay provided by the Federal Bureau of Prisons.

    Tyburn Tree Homepage: Public Executions in Early Modern England

    Information on public executions in Early Modern England, specifically London. Maintained by Charlie Mitchell, Assistant Professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

    The History of Capital Punishment (Hanging) in England

    Timeline of hanging in Britain; Listing of those hanged this century; Hangmen since 1850; The history and process of execution by hanging, from Capital Punishment - U.K.

    The Execution of Caleb Adams

    Historical summary of the case of Caleb Adams, who in 1803 murdered six year old Oliver Woodworth in Connecticut, and was tried, convicted, and executed.

    The Execution of Caleb Adams

    On November 29th, 1803 Caleb Adams was hanged before a crowd of thousands in Windham, CT, for the murder of 6-year-old Oliver Woodworth. These pages contain the fascinating and thought-provoking story of Caleb Adams's life and death, including historical documents related to it.

    History of the Death Penalty in Ancient Civilizations

    Brief history of Capital Punishment in various civilizations, from the Babylonians and Egyptians to the Romans and through the Middle Ages to today, by Lorenzo and Paolo.

    "Dirty Details: Executing U.S. Soldiers During WW II," by J. Robert Lilly, Northern Kentucky University. (November 28, 1995)

    Scholarly paper examining the execution of U.S. soldiers during World War II. It describes the crimes, defendants and victims for 18 military executions that took place in England, 1943-1945.

    "Executing U.S. Soldiers in England, WWII: The Power of Command Influence and Sexual Racism," by J. Robert Lilly. (1995)

    Scholarly paper examining the execution of U.S. soldiers in England during World War II. It describes the purpose of the executions was to control a perceived danger: the socializing of African American troops with British females, and the possible explosive violence between caucasian and African American troops.

    The History of Capital Punishment in Alaska.

    Excellent discussion of the death penalty in Alaska, including recent legislative efforts to reinstitute the death penalty.

    Death Penalty History in Arizona.

    Short history of the Death Penalty in Arizona, including list of executed prisoners by name, date and method, with last meal requests, provided by the Arizona Department of Corrections.

    The History of Capital Punishment in California.

    Excellent discussion of the death penalty in California from the California Department of Corrections.

    Death Penalty History in Delaware.

    Short history of the Death Penalty in Delaware, including list of executed prisoners, current death row, and execution procedures, provided by the Delaware Department of Corrections.

    The History of Capital Punishment in Georgia.

    Short history of Capital Punishment in Georgia provided by the Georgia Department of Corrections, with photo of electric chair.

    The History of Capital Punishment in Maryland.

    Detailed report on the history of capital punishment in Maryland, with a discussion of the recent administration of the death penalty and its problems, and with specific findings and recommendations for the future. (Report Of The Governor's Commission On The Death Penalty, (April 27, 1994)

    The Death Penalty and the North Carolina Department of Correction.

    Short history of Capital Punishment in North Carolina provided by the North Carolina Department of Correction.

    The History of Capital Punishment in Ohio.

    Short history of Capital Punishment in Ohio provided by the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction.

    The History of Capital Punishment in Oklahoma.

    Short history of Capital Punishment in Oklahoma provided by the Oklahoma Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty.

    "Death on the Gurney: An Idea Made in Oklahoma," by Kevin Acers.

    Short article on the origins of lethal injection as a means of execution originating in Oklahoma.

    The Death Penalty and the Oregon Department of Correction.

    Short history of Capital Punishment in Oregon provided by the South Carolina Department of Correction, with executions and current death row information, and methods of execution, with photo of death chamber.

    The Death Penalty and the South Carolina Department of Correction.

    Short history of Capital Punishment in South Carolina provided by the South Carolina Department of Correction.

    Death Penalty History in Texas.

    Short history of the Death Penalty in Texas, including locations and method of execution. (San Antonio Express-News)

    Death Penalty History in Texas. (Texas Department of Criminal Justice)

    Short history of the Death Penalty in Texas, including list of executed prisoners by name, date and method, with last meal requests, provided by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

    "Death and Texas." (Ft. Worth Star-Telegram, December 1998)

    Short pro and con essays on capital punishment, with photos and case summaries of Texas inmates executed in 1997.

    Thoughts on Capital Punishment by Rich Geib.

    Quotes on capital punishment from historical church leaders, including Pope Leo XIII (1901), and the Bishop of Verden (1411), Massachusetts Colony Laws (1641), French Philosopher Michel Eyquen Montaigne (1533-1592), and Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom (1786). (Intended to show that the punishment is often used to quell dissent and heresy)

    EXECUTION AND DEATH ROW STATISTICS

    Death Penalty Information Center
    Probably the single most comprehensive and authoritative internet rersource on the death penalty, with stats conscienciously kept up-to-date. List of executions since 1976 by name, date, state, method, and race of defendant and victim; State per capita execution rates; Number of executions since 1976 by region and state, and by method; List of recent executions (98-99) with very short commentary; Size of death row by state and since 1965; State by state info on death row, minimum age, LWOP option, method of execution, clemency process; Info on abolition or last execution in no-DP states.

    Amnesty International: Death Penalty USA Pages

    List of executed prisoners since 1976 (up-to-date) by name, date, race, state and method, with short factual summaries of each since 1996; Executions by state and by year since 1976; Women on death row by name, race, state and DOB, with very short commentary on each; Juveniles executed since 1976, by name, date, state, and age at crime and execution.

    National Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty (NCADP)

    Number of executions and commutations since 1976 by state, race and method; List of jurisdictions with or without death penalty; List of executed prisoners in 1999 by name, date and state; Alerts on upcoming executions.

    Focus on the Death Penalty: Statistics (Univ Alaska Anchorage)

    Established by the Justice Center at the University of Alaska Anchorage in the wake of a debate on whether to introduce capital punishment to Alaska. Links to Bureau of Justice Capital Punishment 1989-1997, 1998 Sourcebook of Criminal Justice Statistics, Public Opinion from Sam Houston State and Harris Polls.

    Death Penalty News and Updates (SMU)

    From Rick Halperin and Joan Brett. List of executed prisoners since 1977 by name, date, state, method, and names of victims; Number of executions since 1977 by year and state; Texas executions by county; Upcoming executions scheduled.

    Fight the Death Penalty in the USA

    List of executed prisoners 1997-1999 by name, date, race, state and method, with brief news summary on each case.

    The USA Execution Pages

    Complete list of executed prisoners in the United States from 1608-1967; List of executed prisoners from 1967 to present by name, date, state and method; British executions.

    Bureau of Justice Statistics: Capital Punishment 1993-98

    Yearly publication of the U.S. Department of Justice with detailed statistics and history of the death penalty in the U.S. Demographics (race, age, gender, education, criminal history) on those executed and current death row; Number on U.S. death row since 1953; Number executed since 1930 and since 1977 by state and by year; List of jurisdictions with and without death penalty, with summary of statutes and recent statutory changes; Methods of execution and minimum age by state; Time on death row of those executed. Availability lags approximately one year behind.

    Bureau of Justice Statistics: Capital Punishment 1993-1998

    Bureau of Justice Statistics: Capital Punishment 1989-1997

    Bureau of Justice Statistics: Prisoners in 1998

    Yearly publication of the U.S. Department of Justice with detailed statistics on the number and demographics of inmates incarcerated in federal, state, and local institutions; probationers and parolees; Changes and trends in incarceration rates. Availability lags approximately one year behind.

    Interactive Death Penalty Atlas, State by State, Country by Country. (ABC News, December 15, 1998)

    Click on the State from the map, and it will give you the population, number of executions before and after 1976, current # on death row, method of execution, aggravating circumstances, and exclusions. (Also other countries)

    1998 Executions. (Christian Science Monitor Online December 1998)

    Graphic map of the United States showing the number of 1998 executions in each state.

    The Death Penalty in the United States: Statistics (Amnesty International USA)

    Pending Executions; 1999 Executions; Number on Death Row by state; Executions since 1976 by state and year; Execution of Juvenile Offenders, Mentally Retarded, and Foreign Nationals; Methods of Execution by state.

    InfoPlease.Com

    Number of Persons Executed by Jurisdiction, 1930-1997; Demographics (race, age, education, marital status, criminal history, length of stay) of prisoners on death row; Women On Death Row (as of 12/31/97); Methods of Execution and minimum age by state.

    Court TV Library: Death Penalty

    Map of U.S. showing states with and without death penalty; Summaries of statutes in each state and number of executions since 1930 and 1977.

    The American Society of Criminology Critical Criminology Division

    Methods of Execution by state; Executed prisoners in Illinois since 1977 with news accounts of each; Demographics on Illinois Death Row; Bureau of Justice: Capital Punishment 1989-1997.

    Stat House: Capital Punishment

    Short summary of capital punishment statistics from Salt of the Earth Magazine. (1997)

    "Execution Nears for Texas Longest Held Inmate on Death Row," by Michael Graczyk. (AP, March 28, 1999)

    Boulder News/AP news story on the upcoming execution of Robert Excell White, nationwide the inmate with the fourth longest tenure on Death Row.

    "Texas Executes its Longest-Held Death Row Inmate for 1974 Murders," by Michael Graczyk. (Corpus Christi Online, March 31, 1999)

    AP news story on the execution of Robert Excell White: "Send me to my maker, Warden."

    "1999 Is Executioner's Busiest Year In Half-Century," by Laurie Asseo.(San Diego Source/AP, September 27,1999)

    AP news story on the record-breaking execution year of 1999.

    "Rising Number of Executions Welcomed, Decried," by Paul Duggan.(Washington Post.Com, December 13, 1999)

    Washington Post Staff Writer with anti-death penalty slant gives his views on the 1999 increase in executions and the state of the capital punishment debate.

    "1999 Prison Executions Approach All-Time High, Most Since 1951, " by Hans H. Chen. (APBNews December 12, 1999)

    Short article from APB Staff Writer noting the 96 inmates that were executed in 1999, the most since 1951.

    "Texas Executes 200th Person Since 1982." (APBNews/AP January 13, 2000)

    Short article from APB noting the prolific number of executions Texas has carried out since capital punishment was resumed in 1982.

    LEGAL RESEARCH / CAPITAL DEFENSE

    A Capital Defender's Toolbox
    Written and edited by Karl R. Keys, a Massachusetts defense attorney for the condemned, created to assist defense attorneys who represent those facing a death sentence. Form Motions and capital defense manuals; Appellate briefs; Listing of national and state legal defense organizations and advocacy groups; Law Review articles on the internet; Thorough compilation of general death penalty links and legal research links.

    Criminal Justice Legal Foundation: Restoring the Balance for Victims

    A California-based nonprofit public interest law organization dedicated to restoring a balance between the rights of crime victims and the criminally accused. Includes summaries of recent cases of interest in California, U.S. Court of Appeals, and U.S. Supreme Court, with index of 30+ amicus curiae briefs filed by CJLF in cases ranging from panhandling ordinances to the death penalty.

    Capital Punishment Handbook (1997)

    Handbook on the death penalty, with citations to federal and state cases and articles, published by the United States 9th Circuit Court of Appeal 1996 and 1997, downloadable in Acrobat and Zip format.

    Illinois Office of Appellate Public Defender - Death Penalty Materials

    Homepage of the Illinois Appellate Public Defender with discussion of death penalty issues currently before the courts and death penalty materials available to trial and appellate counsel; Brief bank, death penalty case summaries and full opinions available by download in Word or Word Perfect format.

    Capital Defense Network

    Online assistance for the federal capital defense lawyer, at trial, on appeal, or on habeas. Overview of federal death penalty statutes, brief bank, litigation guides, listing of legal research sites, summaries of death penalty opinions, upcoming training and seminars.

    Louisiana Indigent Defender Board - Death Penalty Materials.

    Homepage of the Louisiana Public Defender with discussion of death penalty issues and manuals available to trial and appellate counsel.

    Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys - Death Penalty Materials.

    Homepage of the Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys with materials and manuals available to trial and appellate counsel.

    National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers: Death Penalty Defense

    Lawyer's group against the death penalty, providing capital defense updates, critical "information", publications for capital defense, internet resources and links.

    "Conducting the Penalty Phase of a Capital Case," by Susan F. Schaeffer, Florida Circuit Judge.

    Detailed Handbook of Florida death penalty trial procedures for Judges, from guilty verdict to jury instructions and sentencing orders. (March 1998)

    FindLaw Search: U.S. Supreme Court Decisions 1893-1999

    Full text of all United States Supreme Court Opinions from 1893, with seach by party, citation, browse by year, or full-text.

    FedWorld Search: U.S. Supreme Court Decisions 1937-1975

    Full text of over 7,000 United States Supreme Court Opinions from 1937-1975, U.S. Reports Volume 300-422, with search engine. From FedWorld/Flite.

    Historic U.S. Supreme Court Death Penalty Opinions 1937-1992 (LII - Cornell University)

    Full text of 27 historic United States Supreme Court Death Penalty Opinions, from 1937 to 1992, including Furman, Gregg, Witherspoon, McKlesky, Booth, and Thompson.

    U.S. Supreme Court Death Penalty Opinions (LII - Cornell University)

    Full text of U.S. Supreme Court Death Penalty Opinions.

    Links to State Statutes and Legislation

    Complete set of links to statutes, legislation, administrative codes, and constitutions, state-by-state, from Scruffy.

    Focus on the Death Penalty: Historical Death Penalty Decisions (Univ Alaska Anchorage)

    Short list of historical Death Penalty Opinions 1972-1990.

    Florida Supreme Court: Gavel to Gavel

    Case summaries, briefs, opinions, and Real Audio/Video of all cases heard by the Florida Supreme Court since December, 1997. (Florida State University)

    The Hanging Judges (The Nation, October 1996)

    "The Hanging Judges (of the Renquist Court): Once the Court said, "Death is different." Now it says, "Let's get on with it." Feature article from The Nation, October 1996 by Bryan Stevenson, director of the Equal Justice Initiative of Alabama.

    Justice Blackmun Dissenting Opinion in Callins v. Collins

    Full text of the Dissenting Opinion of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Harry Blackmun in the 1994 appeal of a Texas Death Row inmate in Callins v. Collins

    The Cult of Scalia

    A shrine to U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, with links to his written court opinions and speeches, as well as a biography.

    Indiana Public Defender Commission: Capital Defense

    Standards and guidelines for the reimbursement of capital defense expenditures by the State Public Defender Commission to Indiana counties.

    LEGAL ISSUES

    Cruel & Unusual Punishment
    Habeas Corpus Reform
    Prosecutor Discretion
    Ineffective Assistance of Counsel
    Death Qualified Juries
    Future Dangerousness
    Other Legal Issues

    CRUEL & UNUSUAL PUNISHMENT

    The Costitutionality of Capital Punishment (Wesley Lowe)

    Short summary of arguments supporting the constitutionality of the death penalty as part of the original intent of the framers, and not cruel and unusual punishment, from Wesley Lowe.

    Florida Supreme Court Order Upholding Constitutionality of Electric Chair

    State of Florida vs. Provenzano. Order of the Florida Supreme Court upholding the constitutionality of the Electric Chair following the botched execution of Pedro Medina. The Order contains expert testimony and technical information on the execution process. (August 3, 1999)

    "High Court Rejects Challenge to Electric Chair." (APBNews/AP February 22, 2000)

    News article on the U.S. Supreme Court opinion rejecting the appeal of Alabama Death Row inmate Robert Lee Tarver, by a 5-4 vote finding that Alabama's electric chair, known as "yellow mama," does not constitute cruel and unusual punishment.

    U.S. Supreme Court Justice Breyer Speaks Out on Execution

    CNN/AP article by Richard Carelli, noting the dissent by Justice Breyer to hear arguments from Florida Death Row inmate William D. Elledge, that his 23 year confinement was cruel and unusual. (1998)

    Exploring Constitutional Conflicts: The Death Penalty / Cruel and Unusual Punishment. (1999)

    Feature series presented by Professor Doug Linder of the University of Missouri at Kansas City Law School.

    "How Protracted Death Row Confinement Gives Rise to a Cruel and Unusual Punishment Claim," by Kathleen M. Flynn.

    The "Agony of Suspense": How Protracted Death Row Confinement Gives Rise to an Eighth Amendment Claim of Cruel and Unusual Punishment. (54 Wash. & Lee L. Rev. 291, 1997)

    HABEAS CORPUS REFORM

    Death Penalty Update: Limiting Habeas Corpus Appeals (PBS Online, July 30, 1997)

    Transcript of PBS News Hour segment discussing new federal laws limiting habeas appeals in death penalty cases, with David Crump (University of Houston), Paul Wickes (Defense Attorney), and Bill Taylor (ABA). Also available in Real Audio.

    "Does the Bill of Rights Apply Here Any More? Evisceration of Habeas Corpus," by Stephen B. Bright. (NACDL, November 1996)

    Opinion page from The Champion, a publication of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.

    A Prisoner's Right?: Limiting Habeas Corpus Appeals (PBS Online, June 3, 1996)

    Transcript of PBS News Hour segment discussing new federal laws limiting habeas appeals in death penalty cases, and a recent case (Ellis Wayne Felkerin) front of the U.S. Supreme Court on the issue. Also available in Real Audio.

    "Pennsylvania Admits It Cannot Use New Law to Speed Up Appeals," by Julia Martinez.

    Philadelphia Inquirer news article on admission by Pennsylvania officials that new limits for Habeas appeals are not applicable to their 205 death row prisoners, since Pennsylvania does not meet the requirements of a new law regarding the availability of post-conviction counsel. (February 1, 1997)

    Texas Gears Up for Flood of Executions After Change in Law. (CNN, April 4, 1997)

    News article discussing the expected increase in Texas executions following a new state law speeding up the appeals process.

    PROSECUTOR DISCRETION

    "Prosecutor Discretion: Opting Against Death" by Monroe Freedman (Legal Times)

    Article addressing the ethical dilemma of Prosecutors who refuse to file death penalty cases and who are publicly against capital punishment. Opinion and Commentary by Monroe Freedman (Legal Times, October 16, 1995)

    Robert T. Johnson, District Attorney of Bronx County v. George E. Pataki, Governor

    Opinion of New York State Supreme Court authorizing the removal of the Bronx District Attorney from the prosecution of the murder of a police officer based upon his vocal unwillingness to consider pursuit of a death sentence.

    "The Federal Death Squad: Who Decides Who Should Die?" by Leo Skolnik. (Legal Times, June 7, 1999)

    Legal Times news article descibing how the U.S. Department of Justice decides who is charged and tried for capital murder, and who isn't, under the newly expanded federal capital punishment law.

    "Illinois Law Allows for Death Penalty Request by Prosecutors After Conviction."

    Article describing death penalty procedures in Illinois, including the power of Prosecutors to request death penalty sentencing after conviction, which may result in prohibited arbitrary and capricious executions, from an engineering student at the University of Illinois Chicago.

    INEFFECTIVE ASSISTANCE OF COUNSEL

    "Sleeping Lawyer Syndrome: How Awful Does a Lawyer Have To Be?" by Bruce Shapiro.

    The Nation news article criticizing Texas criminal justice in seeking the death of George McFarland, whose lawyer was purportedly asleep during his trial. (April 7, 1997)

    Federal Death Penalty: Recommendations on the Cost and Quality of Defense.

    Recommendations prepared by the Judicial Conference of the United States, Committee on Defender Services, Subcommittee on Federal Death Penalty Cases, concerning the cost and quality of defense representation in federal death penalty cases.

    "Tennessee Death Row Inmate Receives New Trial Based on Ineffective Assistance," by Mike Moser. (Crossville Chronicle, January 1997)

    Article discussing the Tennessee Supreme Court Opinion giving death row inmate, William Wesley Goad, a new sentencing hearing after holding that his trial attorneys were ineffective by failing to produce available evidence showing Goad had been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder resulting from his military service in Vietnam.

    "Underfunded and Unconstitutional," by John Holdridge. (Capital Trial Assistance Project, 1997)

    Article from the National Legal Aid and Defender Association, claiming that the government's failure to adequately fund indigent defense results in an unconstitutional and ineffective capital defense.

    "Texas-Sized Case of Injustice?" by Paul Duggan. (Washington Post February 22, 2000)

    Article addressing the incompetence of many lawyers in the Texas system of justice for indigents, concentrating on the upcoming execution of Betty Lou Beets.

    "The Evidence of a Lifetime: Ignorance is No Excuse," by Randall L. Wheeler and Julia Pearson. (Kentucky Public Defenders)

    Article directed to capital defense attorneys and their responsibility to investigate and present a history of the defendant's life and resulting mitigating circumstances.

    Texas: Inmates' Legal Representation Questioned (U.S. News Online, August 16, 1999)

    Article expressing concern over the rate of executions and the lack of a statewide public defender system for capital cases in Texas.

    "Death Penalty Representation Not Adequate, Critics Say." (Houston Chronicle, October 3, 1995)

    News article lamenting that Texas Public Defenders are appointed by the Trial Judge and are overworked and underpaid, resulting in death sentences.

    DEATH QUALIFIED JURIES

    Death Qualified Juries (National Science Foundation)

    "Capital Punishment Decisions Hinge on Jurors Who May Not Understand Their Task" from the National Science Foundation News (January 14, 1997).

    "Arguments for Life and Death," by Honeyman & Ogloff. (Canada 1996)

    1996 study from the Psychology Department at Simon Fraser University, investigating the effectiveness of arguments in persuading a jury to recommend a death sentence or life imprisonment. (Canadian Journal of Behavioural Science, January 1996)

    Death Qualified Juries (Ohio State University)

    "Jurors Opposed to the Death Penalty Act Differently from Others" by Jeff Grabmeier (July 1998)

    FUTURE DANGEROUSNESS

    "Social Science in the Prediction of Future Dangerousness." (National Defender Association, 1998)

    Well-written article suggesting as strategy in capital cases that the defense present social scientist testimony to rebut the State's claim of future dangerousness, by Jonathan R. Sorensen.

    OTHER LEGAL ISSUES

    "A (Genuinely) Modest Proposal Concerning the Death Penalty," by Craig M. Bradley. (Indiana University)

    Article from Indiana University School of Law Professor Craig M. Bradley, suggesting that the jury should be instructed on "residual doubt" as a basis for rejecting the death penalty in capital cases.

    Federal Jurisdiction for All Death Penalty Cases

    A term paper from University of Virginia student Greg Potts advocating that all capital cases be prosecuted by the federal government. (1996)

    Clemency Decisions and the Case of Karla Faye Tucker (University of Arizona)

    Memo to the Texas Board of Parole and Pardons on the consideration of clemency for Karla Faye Tucker, from University of Arizona faculty, including a preliminary report suggesting that Clemency Boards meet as a group, provide public explanations for decisions, and that national standards be adopted.

    The Death Penalty in the 21st Century

    American University Law Review Article (Dec 1995) with a transcript of a panel discussion from a conference of "experts" discussing the future of the death penalty.

    Appealing to Ethnic and Nationality Bias in Capital Trial. (Amicus Brief)

    Amicus Brief filed in the 5th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals by the International Human Rights Clinic and the Southern Center for Human Rights, in the Texas death penalty case of Ricardo Aldape Guerra, on the issue of the Prosecution's repeated references to the defendant's Mexican origins.

    Death Penalty Procedures (Justice For All)

    List of 28 separate due process and procedural safeguards afforded the defendant at trial and on appeal, before execution, from Justice For All.

    1997 ABA Resolution Seeking a Moratorium on the Death Penalty

    Resolution adopted by the House of Delegates of the American Bar Association on February 3, 1997, calling for a moratorium on carrying out death sentences in the United States until the jurisdiction (1) ensures that death penalty cases are administered fairly and impartially, in accordance with due process, and (2) minimizes the risk that innocent persons may be executed. (3. until all Prosecutors are villified and all fees are paid)

    PARDON, COMMUTATION, CLEMENCY

    A Letter to Missouri Governor Carnahan On The Pardon of Darrell Mease
    A thoughtful letter by Charlene Hall (Justice For all) written to Missouri Governor Carnahan after the commutation of sentence for death row inmate Darrell Mease upon the visit by Pope John Paul II to St. Louis.

    Clemency Decisions and the Case of Karla Faye Tucker (University of Arizona)

    Memo to the Texas Board of Parole and Pardons on the consideration of clemency for Karla Faye Tucker, from University of Arizona faculty, including a preliminary report suggesting that Clemency Boards meet as a group, provide public explanations for decisions, and that national standards be adopted.

    Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles: Time for a Makeover? (Austin Chronicle, January 22, 1999)

    Short article describing the origins of the clemency powers in Texas, the corruption of its past use, and the current procedures calling for the Board to give the governor its binding "written signed recommendation and advice" on clemency petitions.

    "Killers Lives Hang on Video Clemency Pleas," by Robert A. Phillips. (APBNews March 28, 2000)

    Article with video clips of the clemency pleas of Tennessee Death Row inmates Phillip Workman and Robert Glen Coe.

    Pardon Me: 12 Steps to a Presidential (Federal) Pardon, by Jerome P. Mullins, Attorney at Law. (1999)

    California Board of Prison Terms: How to Apply for a Pardon.
    Montana Board of Pardons and Parole Executive Clemency Report.
    Killing Without Mercy: Clemency Procedures in Texas. (Amnesty International, June 1999)
    "Who Will Decide the Fate of the Parole Board?," by Erica C. Barnett. (Austin Chronicle, January 22, 1999)
    Karla Faye Tucker Challenges Texas Clemency Procedures. (CNN, January 20, 1998)
    Ohio Clemency Procedures Prohibiting Attorneys Considered by Supreme Court. (USA Today/AP, 1997)
    Illinois Governor Edgar Commutes Death Sentence of Guinevere Garcia. (CNN, January 16, 1996)
    Commutations of Sentences is at Heart of Missouri Election Debate. (KC Star, October 6, 1998)
    "Racist Killer Lies to Escape Death Row; Missouir Governor Carnahan Helped Him." (March 25, 1999)
    "Transplant Plan to Get Killers Off Death Row." (The Age, May 4, 1998)
    Virginia Governor Uses DNA Evidence to Pardon Troy Lynn Webb from Death Row," by Larry O'Dell (AP, October 1996)

    RELIGION AND THE CHURCH

    Death Penalty and Religion Links by The Theology Library (79)
    Thorough collection of 63 mainly religious death penalty links on the web, almost entirely anti-death penalty, put together by Gerald Darring, teacher at a catholic high school in Alabama.

    Death Penalty Links from the AlaPadre.Net

    50 up-to-date death penalty links, with an emphasis on religion from Alapadre.Net (formerly the Catholic Corner), a one-stop Catholic study center, by Rev. John J. Stryjewski, Grand Bay, Alabama.

    National Conference of Catholic Bishops

    United States Catholic Conference. Links to statements on the Death Penalty from individual bishops, state and national catholic conferences, and from the Vatican.

    Pope John Paul II Encyclical Letter Against Capital Punishment

    Excerpts from encyclical letter "Evangelium Vitae" (The Gospel of Life) issued by Pope John Paul II on March 25, 1995 after four years of consultations with the world's Roman Catholic bishops, declaring that execution is only appropriate "in cases of absolute necessity" to defend society.

    New Papal Plea Against the Death Penalty

    Excerpts from December 13, 1999 plea from Pope John Paul II. (EWTN Vatican News Update)

    "Pope Ends U.S. Trip by Decrying Death Penalty." (L.A. Times, January 28, 1999)

    L.A. Times article by Richard Boudreaux and Stephanie Simon, discussing Pope John Paul's visit to St. Louis, urging an end to capital punishment ion the United States.

    Catholics Against Capital Punishment

    National advocay group against capital punishment, with a good set of mostly anti-death penalty links, with an emphasis on religion; New language of Catechism of the Catholic Church on the death penalty.

    Choose Life: Catholic Teaching and the Death Penalty. (Indiana Catholic Conference)

    Anti-Death Penalty policy statement, quoting from Pope John Paul II and the U.S. Catholic Bishops, suggesting that Life Without Parole passed by Indiana legislature is sufficient to meet the need to protect society.

    Christianity and the Death Penalty (Justice For All)

    Thorough Pro-Death Penalty article with significant Biblical citations and references, with commentary from Justice For All.

    Capital Punishment and Christianity (Wesley Lowe)

    Thorough Pro-Death Penalty article with significant Biblical citations and references, with commentary from Wesley Lowe.

    PFADP: People of Faith Against the Death Penalty Homepage

    A special project of the North Carolina Council of Churches, dedicated to the abolition of capital punishment. Statements from prominent North Carolinans from the Ex-Governors to Dean Smith. Short commentary on "7 Myths of the Death Penalty."

    Religious Organizing Against the Death Penalty Project

    Links to statements on capital punishment from most major religions in the United States.

    The Bible's Teaching on Capital Punishment by Logos Christian Resources

    Online ministry with citations from Old and New Testament and good discussion supporting Capital Punishment, David L. Brown Th.M. (1992)

    "The Sword of the Revenger: The Biblical Basis For Capital Punishment," by Greg Loren Durand.

    Lengthy and well-referenced pro-death penalty essay based upon the fundamentals of Christianity. (1995)

    Does God Support the Death Penalty? (New Testament Support)

    Short pro-death penalty biblical essay by Doug Bullen.

    The Pope Versus the Death Penalty by Fr. David C. Trosch. (1999)

    Pro-Death Penalty essay criticizing the anti-death penalty policies of Pope John Paul II, with links and citations to the Sequential Authority Structure and the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

    Pro-Capital Punishment by Kerby Anderson of Probe Ministries International

    Thoughtful pro-death penalty essay addressing the arguments of abolitionists, with emphasis on religion by Kerby Anderson of Probe Ministries International.

    "Mother Teresa on Death Row," by Michael Wayne Hunter on California Death Row.

    Short article by an inmate on California Death Row, describing the impact of Mother Teresa's 1987 San Quentin visit.

    Presbyterian General Assemblies Statements in Opposition to the Death Penalty.

    Links to major public policy statements opposing the death penalty from the Presbyterian General, issued in 1959, 1977, 1978, and 1985.

    United Church of Christ Statement in Opposition to the Death Penalty.

    A "Resolution to Abolish Capital Punishment," adopted by the United Church of Christ's 7th General Synod, July 2, 1969, in Boston.

    A Theological Essay Against Capital Punishment by Kenneth Cauthen

    Excerpts from the book "Toward a New Modernism" by Kenneth Cauthen, with an emphasis on theology and ethics. (1997)

    "The Death Penalty Only Serves to Further Dehumanize Society," by Rev. Dale Turner. (Seattle Times March 18, 2000)

    Short but well written anti-death penalty article/essay, emphasizing moral and philosophical arguments.

    A Moral, Practical, and Theological Discussion of the Death Penalty (Mennonites)

    Death as a Penalty: A Moral, Practical, and Theological Discussion by Howard Zehr. A thorough article from the Mennonite Central Committe of U.S. and Canada. (1987, 1998)

    "The Death Penalty: One Atheist's Position," by Ellen Johnson. (1998)

    Personal statement of Ellen Johnson, President of American Atheists.

    Mishpatim: On Delivering Punishment to Fit the Crime

    Thoughts on the Torah and punishment by Rabbi Stephen Pearce, Jewish Bulletin of Northern California.(1996)

    Rabbi Black's Statement Against the Death Penalty. (March 1999)

    Transcript of Rabbi Black's Statements on his participation in a statewide Press Conference on the Death Penalty in Albequerque, New Mexico - March 1999.

    "Jewish Death Row Inmate Fights for Religious Freedom," by Teresa Strasser. (Jewish Bulletin, April 12, 1996)

    Article on the struggles of California Death Row inmate Chay'im Ben-Sholom to exercise his orthodox jewish faith, demanding kosher prison diet.

    1846 Essay by Church of Christ Minister Campbell on Capital Punishment

    The 19th Century Restoration Movement, founded by Alexander Campbell, spawned several distinct religious groups including the Churches of Christ, the Christian Churches, and the Disciples of Christ. This long essay detailes the church view on capital punishment.

    1847 Reply to Campbell on Capital Punishment by Tolbert Fanning

    Tolbert Fanning on Capital Punishment: A Reply to Alexander Campbell. From: "CAPITAL PUNISHMENT. NO.2" in: Christian Review, Vol. 4 (Franklin College, June 1847).

    Reformed Church in America Against Capital Punishment

    Reformed Church in America Perspective on Capital Punishment, reports to the General Synod in 1965 and 1966.

    "The Death Penalty," from Evangelist Richard Ciarrocca.

    Short death penalty policy statement from Evangelist Richard Ciarrocca (Pilgrim Fundamental Baptist Press)

    "Objections to Capital Punishment Answered," by John A. Kohler, III.

    Short biblical answers to common objections raised against capital punishment. (Morris Fork, West Virginia Baptist Church)

    A Social Statement on the Death Penalty by the Evangelical Lutheran Church (1991)

    A Statement on the Death Penalty by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, adopted by a two-thirds vote at the Churchwide Assembly of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, meeting in Orlando, Florida, August 28-September 4, 1991.

    Christianity and the Death Penalty. (Oklahoma Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty)

    What would Jesus do? Opinions from Pope John Paul and Sister Helen Prejean. What the Bible says. Forgiveness and Grief. What can Christians do about the Death Penalty.

    "Capital Punishment" an article from the 1913 Catholic Encyclopedia

    An article on capital punishment from The Catholic Encyclopedia (1913) by John Willey Willis, as transcribed by Carl H. Horst from the New Advent Catholic Website.

    Catholic Bishops of Illinois Statement on Capital Punishment (1996)

    Statement on Capital Punishment by the Catholic Bishops of Illinois (February 1996), with the full support of the Catholic Conference of Illinois, Archdiocese of Chicago.

    U.S. Catholic Bishops Statement on the Death Penalty (1980)

    U.S. Catholic Bishops' Statement on Capital Punishment, Approved by the U.S. Bishops in November 1980.

    A Letter from the Kentucky Bishops on Capital Punishment (1996)

    Statement on Capital Punishment by the Catholic Bishops of Kentucky (December 1996).

    "Catholic Leaders Meet to Discuss Taking Death-Penalty Battle to Masses." (Sun-Sentinel April 11, 2000)

    News article describing a meeting of Florida's Catholic leaders, discussing anti-death penalty strategies, to include indoctrinating the masses despite strong catholic support.