The most compelling reason for ending state executions is that, though the state has a right to defend its citizenry, capital punishment merely silences life. It neither dramatizes the horror of crime nor speaks out for life. It was once thought to do both, but not in our brutal society. Capital punishment actually adds to the increasing anger and morbidness of society. America in its entertainments, its public ethics, and its culture is entoiled with death.
Capital punishment adds to the death.
To be sure a government has a duty to defend its citizens against danger, but that has been accomplished with Garza behind bars. Killing him would merely make him a transient star in our witless celebrity culture. Moreover, once executed Garza would have no chance to acknowledge his wrongs. Locked away for the rest of his life, given benefit of clergy, an ample library, plus time for solitary reflection, even a murderer such as Garza might attain contrition for his cruelty. Once executed he will have no chance to acknowledge his wrongs.