Of the six inmates who got away, three were serving life terms for murder. They were captured. But they had more than ample opportunity to kill again during their two days of freedom. They also had the means. Shotguns and knives were found in their car.
Critics understandably are concerned about innocent defendants being put to death.
But, with the advent of DNA testing, that isn't likely. In any case, death should be imposed only where there is absolutely no doubt about guilt. It's difficult to justify an outright ban on capital punishment. Armed robbers, for example, would have little reason not to wipe out witnesses. One does not show respect for human life by pursuing policies that needlessly jeopardize innocent people.