Oregon Governor John Kitzhaber has declared a moratorium on the death penalty in Oregon. Oregon joins 16 other states and the District of Columbia in its removal of the death penalty as a sentencing option.
Oregon Governor Kitzhaber said, "I am convinced we can find a better solution that keeps society safe, supports the victims of crime and their families, and reflects Oregon values. I refuse to be a part of this compromised and inequitable system any longer; and I will not allow further executions while I am Governor."
Governor Kitzhaber's decision stops the execution of twice-convicted murderer, Gary Haugen, which was scheduled for December 6, 2011. Haugen had waived his appeals.
Governor Kitzhaber said his decision was made "[b]oth because of my own deep personal convictions about capital punishment and also because in practice, Oregon has an expensive and unworkable system that fails to meet basic standards of justice."
Governor Kitzhaber noted his decision was not based on compassion for Haugen or other death row inmates. He pointed out that the death penalty is imposed unfairly, with people who have committed similar crimes to those on death row serving life sentences.
Oregon Governor Kitzhaber said, "I am convinced we can find a better solution that keeps society safe, supports the victims of crime and their families, and reflects Oregon values. I refuse to be a part of this compromised and inequitable system any longer; and I will not allow further executions while I am Governor."
Governor Kitzhaber's decision stops the execution of twice-convicted murderer, Gary Haugen, which was scheduled for December 6, 2011. Haugen had waived his appeals.
Governor Kitzhaber said his decision was made "[b]oth because of my own deep personal convictions about capital punishment and also because in practice, Oregon has an expensive and unworkable system that fails to meet basic standards of justice."
Governor Kitzhaber noted his decision was not based on compassion for Haugen or other death row inmates. He pointed out that the death penalty is imposed unfairly, with people who have committed similar crimes to those on death row serving life sentences.
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