There is certainly nothing anomalous in punishing the crime of murder differently in different jurisdictions.
Circumstances of crimes vary. So do motives. And so do prospects for rehabilitation. The number of imponderables makes it impossible to sentence by formula and still sentence justly.
Under a death penalty statute that is going to stand up to constitutional muster, you look at the aggravating circumstances and the mitigating circumstances.
how can a little thing be so annoying?
I am deeply impressed with the gravity and wisdom with which most federal judges approach the responsibility of sentencing. It is a difficult, soul-searching task at best.
McVeigh's lawyer got him the death penalty, which, quite frankly, I could have done.
For any prosecutor, a decision to show leniency in sentencing must be weighed against multiple factors. Do they show remorse for their actions? Are they a threat to the public and law enforcement? Do they intend to contribute to society?
He (Leo Durocher) had the ability of taking a bad situation and making it immediately worse.
