Reader: Botched executions don't make me sympathize with murderers

Our post about ten executions gone horribly wrong, inspired by the failure of recent legislation to outlaw the practice and the decision to seek the death penalty against James Holmes, stirred strong feelings on both sides of the issue. Here's one example, from a reader who has a hard time...

By Michael Roberts

April 9, 2013

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Our post about ten executions gone horribly wrong, inspired by the failure of recent legislation to outlaw the practice and the decision to seek the death penalty against James Holmes, stirred strong feelings on both sides of the issue. Here's one example, from a reader who has a hard time seeing killers as victims.

Josh Bradley writes:

I'm sure their victims didnt have a choice to go peacefully, so why should the killers? If anything, we execute them too humanely.

For more memorable takes, visit our Comment of the Day archive.

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Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

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