Death Penalties - Does It Deter Crime?

[BrainSmashR]

Originally Posted by Al Swearengen

Its a fair point. The death penalty likely wouldnt deter the sort of people who commit violent crimes, as they arent exactly the most rational of folks to begin with. I just said it'd make ME think twice, but then I'm not a violent criminal.

As for the gun issue... I fully understand that there will always be violent criminals around, likewise I fully understand that we cant stop insane people from doin insane things with insane laws (laws are meaningless to them...that's what makes them criminals) that only succeed at disarmin law-abidin citizens like you and me. I just take great comfort in knowin that if some nutcase shows up and starts randomly shootin people at the store or restaurant where I just happen to be, somebody, perhaps even myself, might just be able to drop the bastard and save some innocent lives.

I too am pro-death penalty and obviously pro-gun, so theres no argument.

Actually I see your example in an entirely different light. Think about how many domestic dispute cases you've ever heard about, then imagine that guy having a gun in his pocket instead of just a clenched fist.

Now try to imagine how many OTHER misdemeanor crimes will turn into felony murders if those people are carrying guns when they blow their stack?