If a person is charged with murder (with intent or during a crime) and found guilty, then the sentencing goes to the family or bereaved closest to the victim. Appeals are considered only on the basis of new evidence. Thumbs up and the perp does absolute life in prison. This includes no gym time, phone calls, rec room, TV, education or any of the other crap now going on in prison. The perp works 10 hour days six days a week and any monies beyond support costs go to the family. Three hots and a cot. Medical care for minor medical and pain relief. Terminal illness is given it's course. Sentence is carried out within one year.
If thumbs down, the closest family member/legal representative pulls the lever, pushes the plunger or throws the switch.
In this way, multiple benefits are achieved:
1. The perp is punished.
2. The victim is avenged.
3. The family has a measure of revenge.
4. The law is upheld and will increase respect for the law.
4. Society is protected.
5. No costs are incurred to the state.
6. The state does NOT have the power of life and death over the individual.
7. Mercy or death is the option of the justly aggrieved and part of the historic purpose of punishment and justice in the emotional and spiritual realm.
8. Fear is instilled in evil doers.
9. There is no recourse for the convicted, thus, no protracted legal costs or wrangling.
10. The general populace has renewed confidence in governance and security in society.
“The perp works 10 hour days six days a week...”
That’s the only part I disagree with as far as your proposal...My father was a Federal judge and I raised that suggestion once during a discussion and he said that case law was pretty clear that we cannot compel a prisoner to work.
That being said, if the murderer wishes to spend his day rotting in his cell, I’m OK with that.
Great plan.
“If thumbs down, the closest family member/legal representative pulls the lever, pushes the plunger or throws the switch.”
To this I suggest it be added that, where there is a choice, manner of death is chosen by the victim’s loved one(s) so that even that measure of control is out of the killer’s hands.