As a nation, we haven't cried enough for the 'thugs'.  That's not my opinion, it's statistics: we jail more people than any culture in the history of the planet, and lead the world in recidivism (repeat offenders).  

Many people see criminal justice as good guys vs. bad guys.  I see it as people vs. people.

It's a tragedy that two public servants died in the name of you and me; but nobody's interest is served by treating the defendant like an animal.  If he can be rehabilitated and released, that is clearly the best option for the public good.  An eye for an eye leaves everyone blind.