Death Penalty Revival: Does It Really Make North Carolina Safer?
A Controversial Return
North Carolina has reintroduced the death penalty after a 20-year hiatus, thanks to Iryna's Law. This legislation was enacted following the tragic murder of 23-year-old Iryna Zarutska on the Charlotte light rail. The law includes some positive aspects, such as mandatory mental health evaluations and reviews of pre-trial release procedures. However, it also reinstates the death penalty, a measure that has sparked significant debate.
Does the Death Penalty Deter Crime?
The primary argument for the death penalty is that it serves as a deterrent to potential criminals. However, evidence supporting this claim is scant. Some studies even suggest that states with the death penalty have higher murder rates. If the objective is to prevent crimes like Zarutska's, reinstating the death penalty may not be the most effective solution.
Mental Health Concerns
One of the most pressing concerns surrounding the death penalty is its application to individuals with mental illness. The man accused of Zarutska's murder has a history of schizophrenia, and courts are currently assessing his mental fitness to stand trial. The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that executing individuals who are mentally ill or lack the capacity to understand their punishment constitutes cruel and unusual punishment. Organizations like the American Bar Association and the National Alliance on Mental Illness strongly oppose the use of the death penalty for those with mental health conditions.
The Risk of Executing the Innocent
Another critical issue is the possibility of executing innocent people. Since 1973, at least 200 individuals on death row in the U.S. have been exonerated, including 12 from North Carolina. While the evidence against Zarutska's accused killer appears strong, history shows that innocent people can—and have been—sentenced to death.
Impact on Juveniles
The death penalty also raises concerns regarding juvenile offenders. In 2024, a law was passed making it easier to try teens as adults for serious crimes. However, the Supreme Court ruled two decades ago that executing individuals who committed crimes as minors is excessive and violates the Eighth Amendment.
A Better Path Forward
Rather than focusing on punitive measures, North Carolina should consider crime prevention strategies. Investing in mental health services, community violence prevention programs, and education and job opportunities could yield more meaningful and lasting results. If the ultimate goal is community safety and justice, the death penalty may not be the most effective or ethical approach.
