It can be used to argue the opposite. It can be used to argue that the death penalty is a deterrent to crime. It can also be used to argue the opposite. Reason is limited, because what is logical or reasonable depends on the facts we choose to focus on, and the assumptions with which we begin. Some reasons which sway me to oppose the death penalty are that Mistakes are often made.
Studies now show that eyewitness reports are often wrong.
New DNA technology has resulted in the acquittal of several men who were on death row. There is serious doubt that the death penalty is an effective deterrent to crime. It actually costs more in dollars to execute someone than to imprison them for life. There is serious doubt about the fairness and equity of application of the death penalty. You are more likely to receive the death penalty if you are a person of color or poor, and especially if you are a person of color who murders a white person.