Last Words On Death Row

My friend just sent me this link to the Texas Dept. of Corrections list of executed offenders.

http://www.tdcj.state.tx.us/stat/executedoffenders.htm

It includes their last remarks. It's chilling and bizarre and sobering. Here are the last words of Luis Ramirez. He was killed last month.


"Yes I do. I would like to address you first. I did not kill your loved one, but I hope that one day you find out who did. I wish I could tell you the reason why, or give some kind of solace; you lost someone you love very much. The same as my family and friends are going to lose in a few minutes. I am sure he died unjustly, just like I am. I did not murder him; I did not have anything to do with his death. And to you my family and friends, I love you dearly. Even though I die, that love for you will never die. Into Your hands, Lord, I commit my spirit. Thank you. Thank you all."


Ramirez's case is used in some campaigns against the death penalty. Here's a link: http://www.cuadp.org/pris/people/Ramirez,_Luis.html

I don't get it.

I think there is more to this story. I'm not saying I think he is guilty, but there had to be more there for people to not have any doubt.

Using it for garden variety murders is just so wrong. Using it so families can feel vindicated in some sort of blood lust revenge fantasy is wrong.

In fact, the only case I've seen during my lifetime that could have justifed the DP is Ted Bundy, who escaped twice to continue killing. Even then, we could have found a place to put him where he couldn't do it again. The door could have been welded shut. He could have been medicated, chemically restrained in prison.

And yes, I speak as a survivor of a family homicide.

after the murder happens. That's because they're sane people with firm convictions, and don't allow themselves to go crazy from the grief.

Years ago, a reporter was interviewing the mother of a 21 yo who was raped and murdered in Rio. He asked if she wished there was a DP in Brazil. She answered NO, on live TV.

You could SMELL the disappointment of the reporter. Evil fucker.

to hear you had to go through that.

I just can't imagine wanting to live in a society where my government has the ability to kill me. Or any of its citizens. I find that terrifying and unnatural.