Legal Document

506 U.S. 461 113 S.Ct. 892 122 L.Ed.2d 260 Gary GRAHAM, Petitioner,v.James A. COLLINS, Director, Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Institutional Division. No. 91-7580. Argued Oct. 14, 1992. Decided Jan. 25, 1993. Syllabus * Petitioner Graham's capital murder conviction and death sentence became final in 1984. After unsuccessfully seeking postconviction relief the state courts, he filed this habeas corpus action Federal District Court, alleging, inter alia, that three "special issues" his sentencing jury was required to answer under capital-sentencing statute then existence prevented from giving effect, consistent with Eighth Fourteenth Amendments, mitigating evidence youth, unstable family background, positive character traits. In affirming Court's denial relief, Court Appeals reviewed holdings on constitutional requirement a sentencer be permitted consider act upon any relevant put forth by defendant, ruled could give adequate effect question way answering special issues. Held: claim is barred because seeks would require announcement new rule law, contravention principles set Teague v. Lane, 489 288, 301, 109 1060, 1070, 103 334 (plurality opinion). Pp. ____. (a) A holding not "dictated precedent existing at time defendant's final" constitutes "new rule," ibid., which, absent applicability one two exceptions, cannot applied or announced case collateral review, Penry Lynaugh, 492 302, 313, 2934, 2944, 106 256. Thus, determinative whether reasonable jurists hearing 1984 "would have felt compelled precedent" favor. See Saffle Parks, 494 484, 488, 110 1257, 1260, 108 415. (b) It said " vacatur within Teague's meaning. To contrary, joint opinion Justices Stewart, Powell, STEVENS, Jurek Texas, 428 262, 270-276, 96 2950, 2955-2958, 49 929, reasonably read as having upheld constitutionality very statutory scheme which Graham sentenced, including so-called issues," only after being satisfied petitioner's evidence, age, given constitutionally consideration course jury's deliberation Moreover, Lockett Ohio, 438 586, 605-606, 98 2954, 2965-2966, 57 973 opinion), expressly embraced holding, Eddings Oklahoma, 455 104, 102 869, 71 1 signaled no retreat conclusion. it likely found that, these cases, commands Amendment: place before whatever show, while focusing attention what revealed about capacity for prospects rehabilitation. Nothing post-1984 extent they are relevant, undermine analysis. Even if Penry, supra, chiefly relies, suggest adequately considered procedures, does Teague. (c) The fall either exceptions. first exception plainly has application here neither decriminalize class conduct nor prohibit imposition punishment particular persons. Saffle, U.S., 495, S.Ct., 1263-1264. second exception, watershed rules implicating fundamental fairness accuracy, also inapplicable, since denying instructions concerning seriously diminish likelihood obtaining an accurate determination proceeding. Butler McKellar, 407, 416, 1212, 1218, 347. P. 950 F.2d 1009 (CA5 1992), affirmed. WHITE, J., delivered REHNQUIST, C.J., SCALIA, KENNEDY, THOMAS, JJ., joined. concurring opinion. dissenting SOUTER, opinion, BLACKMUN, O'CONNOR, Michael E. Tigar, Austin, TX, petitioner. Charles Palmer, respondent. Justice WHITE Court. case, we asked decide sentenced petitioner, Graham, able Because comes us however, must petitioner (1989). Concluding Teague, affirm. 2 On night May 13, 1981, accosted Bobby Grant Lambert parking lot Houston, grocery store attempted grab wallet. When resisted, drew pistol shot him death. Five months later, rejected defense mistaken identity convicted violation Tex.Penal Code Ann. § 19.03(a)(2) 3 At phase trial, State offered commenced week violent attacks during 17-year-old committed string robberies, several assaults, rape. did contest evidence. Rather, mitigation, testimony stepfather grandmother upbringing stepfather, Joe Samby, testified who lived worked natural father, typically visited mother once twice "real nice, respectable" person. Samby further pitch chores himself father young children, "buy . clothes children try them food." 4 grandmother, Emma Chron, had her off throughout childhood been hospitalized periodically "nervous condition." Chron stated she never known disrespectful, attended church regularly growing up, "[h]e loved Lord." closing arguments jury, counsel depicted criminal behavior aberrational urged take youth into account deciding punishment. 5 accord effect,1 instructed issues": 6 "(1) defendant caused deceased deliberately expectation another result; 7 (2) there probability commit acts violence constitute continuing threat society; 8 (3) raised killing unreasonable response provocation, any, deceased." Tex.Code Crim.Proc.Ann., Art. 37.071(b) (Vernon 1981). 9 unanimously answered each questions affirmative, court, statute, 37.071(e). affirmed unpublished 10 1987, sought courts. following year, petitioned writ pursuant 28 U.S.C. 2254, contending, unable confines issues." denied Fifth Circuit petition certificate probable cause appeal. 854 715 (1988). foreclosed our recent decision Franklin 487 164, 2320, 101 155 (1988), held fully clean prison disciplinary record Texas' F.2d, 719-720. 11 While certiorari pending here, its 256 (1989), mental retardation abused framework issues.2 We granted petition, vacated judgment below, remanded reconsideration light Penry. 915, 3237, 585 remand, divided panel reversed sentence. 896 893 1990). 12 rehearing en banc, panel's reinstated prior mandate (1992). court forward merits. noted against facial attack 929 (1976), acknowledging 'the procedures turns enumerated allow particularized factors.' 1019 (quoting Jurek, 272, 2956). Noting proffered employment history, aid family, concluded "[a]t least, stand proposition factors—relative reflecting good traits such steady helping others—are covered issue," risk future dangerousness. 1029. "Penry hold otherwise," observed, "and same 'new rule' purposes." Ibid. Accordingly, childhood, 13 certiorari, 504 ----, 112 2937, 119 563 (1992), now II 14 federal corpus, "we determine, threshold matter, granting create law. 2944; see 1070 "Under will cases review unless exceptions." 1070. This restriction applies those involving penalty. 314, 1077; Stringer Black, 503 1130, 117 367 (1992); Sawyer Smith, 497 227, 2822, 111 193 (1990); 415 347 (1990). 15 rule" meaning "breaks ground," "imposes obligation States Government," final." (emphasis original). can dispute announces overrules decision, "it more difficult determine announce when extends reasoning cases." 1260. leading purpose "ensur[e] courts proceedings accordance Constitution interpreted th[ose] proceedings," "[t]he principle validates reasonable, good-faith interpretations precedents made courts." 414, 1217. adheres even "are shown contrary later decisions." favor, doing so now. B 16 Petitioner's September 10, 1984, filing expired. Griffith Kentucky, 479 321, n. 6, 107 708, 712 93 649 (1987). Surveying legal landscape existed, conclude anything but clear proceeding comport Constitution. 17 years Furman Georgia, 408 238, 92 2726, 33 346 (1972), identified, struggled harmonize, competing commandments Amendment. hand, itself emphasized, limit channel discretion judges juries ensure sentences meted out "wantonly" "freakishly." Id., 310, 2763 (Stewart, concurring). other, emphasized subsequent confer sufficient "character individual offender circumstances offense" "death appropriate specific case." Woodson North Carolina, 280, 304-305, 2978, 2991-2992, 944 (1976) JJ.). 18 Four Furman, day announced, examined struck balance between concerns. thus entire imposing penalty well how arrived judgment. STEVENS observed adopted list aggravating justify penalty, "its narrowing categories murders may ever imposed serves much purpose." 270, 2955. went say system requires authority speak instead directs questions, "the factors." 2956. 19 recognized held: 20 'In determining society, significant record. range severity conduct. look age commission offense acting duress domination another. extreme form emotional pressure, something less, perhaps, than insanity, emotions average man, however inflamed, withstand.' [Jurek ], 522 S.W.2d [934], 939-940 [ (Tex.Cr.App.1975) ]." 272-273, 2956-2957. 21 Based assurance, characterized procedure follows: 22 "Thus, law essentially five guilty murder, considering impose bring it. appears Georgia Florida, guides focuses objective death." 273-274 [96 2957]. 23 "What essential all possible information whose fate determine. clearly assures adduced." 276 2958]. opinion's ultimate conclusion 24 "that like do violate Amendments. By definition least circumstance first-degree considered. authorizing separate relating adduced, ensured guidance enable perform function. providing prompt judicial statewide jurisdiction, provided means promote evenhanded, rational, assure 'wantonly' 'freakishly' imposed, (STEWART, concurring)." 276, 2745. 25 plain enough, think, introduced Three other concurred were constitutional. 278-279, 2746-2747 (WHITE, judgment). 26 Two splintered (1978), invalidated Ohio certain so, plurality consisting Chief Burger infirmities "best understood comparing statutes Gregg, Proffitt, Jurek." 606, 2965. proceeded do, recounting process show. Emphasizing "an individualized [sentencing] cases," concluded: 27 "There perfect governmental should used But prevents independent weight aspects mitigation creates spite factors call less severe penalty." 605, Obviously, believe suffered infirmity. 29 plurality's majority four (1982). There, overturned grounds judge entered bound disregard troubled disturbance. "[j]ust preclude factor, refuse consider, matter evidence." 113-114, 877 omitted); Hitchcock Dugger, 481 393, 394, 1821, 1822, 95 (1987); Skipper South 476 1, 4-5, 1669, 1670-1671, 90 (1986). rested mention Jurek. 30 most readers upholding validity respect otherwise. seems 31 find nothing 1988, issues inadequate vehicle "[i]n resolving Special Issue, surely free weigh evaluate bore 'character'—that is, 'character' measured behavior." 178, 2329. 32 "unavailing reliance statement Eddings, 114, 877, precluded 'any evidence.' leaves unanswered question: what? Lockett, 604, 2964, answers part—making realm considerations 'character,' 'record,' 'circumstances offense'—Lockett role structuring shape 179, 2330 (citations omitted). sure, O'CONNOR's expressed "doubts" might cases. 183, 2332. agreed, accounted presented case. 34 brings relies. prisoner's sentence, finding genuine opportunity childhood. diminished ability "to control impulses consequences conduct," therefore reduced moral culpability. 322, 2948. necessarily benefit defendant. Although Penry's impairment abuse indeed relevance "future dangerousness" inquiry, only. "Penry's history two-edged sword: blameworthiness crime indicates dangerous future." 324, 2949. Whatever too tenuous overcome potential. impossible meaningful issues, entitled "informing [Penry's] declining 328, 2952. 35 effecting sea change view former statute; broadly invalidity framework.3 Indeed, reading inconsistent announcing 318-319, 2946-2947. As explained cases: 36 "To creation surprising. command making decision; contention acting. Here, contrast, altogether Parks' considering, weighing, Parks them; rather, unconstitutionally limited manner above, come Eddings; latter not." 491, 1261-1262. view, commanded rested. defect lay fact placed beyond effective reach sentencer. Skipper, Hitchcock, types reliable reach. indisputably both lawyers vigorously "no" based Most important, done instructions. forbidden accept suggestion brief spasm activity 1981 properly viewed, character, aberration repeated. Penry's, significance scope issue, apparent evidence—unlike —had issue Whereas affirmative despite significance, quite readily supported negative answer. distinction leads predecessors "dictates ---- - 1141 (slip op., 1-2) (SOUTER, dissenting): "The result dictated 'susceptible debate among minds,' or, differently, 'reasonable disagree' 37 convinced extended cover sorts suggests without wholesale abandonment perhaps supra. noted, reason regard background different light. transient otherwise nonviolent closely resembles Jurek's familial ties harsh physical abuse. dissent clear, virtually capable viewed some bearing "moral culpability" apart concerns embodied Franklin, 190, 2336 (STEVENS, dissenting). us, urges—and thereby whenever offer arguable issues—would fourth issue" jury: 'Does you, above [three] lead you imposed?' precisely contention, irreconcilable 180, 2330, affirm today. Accepting submission unmistakably 1260; 412, 1213-1214. 38 sum, inquiry existed infirm. deemed themselves Nor say, mind ruling seeks, therefore, 39 Having decided next nonetheless exceptions principle. permits retroactive places private power proscribe, 311, 1075-1076, addresses 'substantive categorical guarante[e] accorded Constitution,' 'prohibiting category defendants their status offense.' 494, 1263 329, 330, 2952-2953). Plainly, persons." 1258. 40 'watershed procedure' accuracy proceeding." precise meant apply small core requiring "observance 'those "implicit concept ordered liberty." ' 1075 Mackey United States, 401 667, 693, 91 1160, 1180, 404 (1971) (Harlan, judgments part part) (in turn quoting Palko Connecticut, 302 319, 325, 58 149, 152, 82 L.Ed. 288 (1937))); 1218. cautioned "[b]ecause operate premise central innocence guilt, unlikely many components basic due yet emerge." 1077. "seriously diminish[ed] determination" inapplicable well. 41 42 Affirmed. 43 concurring. 44 basis avoided direct I join agree rests adopted, purposes. write separately, make wrongly decided. 45 Several members commented "tension" decisions applying principle, articulated Amendments sentencers unguided E.g., 182, 2331-2332, (1988) opinion); California Brown, 538, 544, 837, 840-841, 934 (1987) (O'CONNOR, concurring); McCleskey Kemp, 279, 363, 1756, 1804, 262 (BLACKMUN, my largely resolved tension through use repeatedly approved war scheme. "mitigating" line, unavoidable tension; presents evident danger. 46 47 important recall motivated Members genesis modern atmosphere suffused concern race bias administration particularly Southern rape petitioners black.1 Lucious Jackson 21-year-old black man raping white woman. Elmer Branch 65-year-old widow. William Henry faced unintentionally homeowner burglary. 252-253, 2733-2734 (Douglas, concurring).2 unconstitutional, Douglas stressed potential racial illegitimate prejudices where boundless discretion. He thought cruel unusual "selectively minorities whom society willing suffer though countenance general across board." 245, 2729. Citing studies reports suggesting [was] disproportionately carried poor, Negro, unpopular groups," especially rape, id., 249-250, 2732 (internal quotation marks omitted), 48 enables selectively applied, feeding accused poor despised, lacking political clout, member suspect minority, saving social position protected position." 255, 2735. Marshall echoed 364-366, 2790-2791 (concurring wrote "[r]acial discriminations [in sentencing] surprising," because, earlier McGautha California, 402 ,S.Ct. 1454, 711 (1971), "committ[ed] untrammeled pronounce life death," 207, 1467, open invitation discrimination." 365, 2790-2791. Stewart agreed "if discerned selection few die, impermissible race." 2762 50 unquestionable importance reflected original represented NAACP Legal Defense Educational Fund, Inc. representation concerted "national litigative campaign penalty" waged number ambitious academics Fund's behalf. Burt, Disorder Court: Death Penalty Constitution, 85 Mich.L.Rev. 1741, 1745 efforts began rather modestly, assisting indigent isolated cases—usually —where discrimination suspected, Fund ultimately devised implemented (not prompting Court) all-out strategy litigation generally M. Meltsner, Cruel Unusual: Supreme Capital Punishment (1973) (hereinafter Meltsner); Muller, Campaign: Distorting Influence Death, Yale L. & Policy Rev. 158 (1985).3 larger movement 1960s "abolitionist lawyers" agenda depended activist judiciary; "unmistakable preference courts," came "response willingness redraw America's ethical map, task houses executive mansions slow tackle." Meltsner 71.4 51 mustering every conceivable argument—"ethical, legal, polemical, theological, speculative, [and] statistical"—for abolishing punishment, 59, civil rights advocates supplied empirical rhetorical support observations Douglas, Marshall, bias. Brief Aikens O.T.1971, 68-5027, pp. 50-54; 69-5030, p. ("The figures men executed 1930 white, 405 other. are: Negro") (footnotes et al. Amici Curiae 13-18, App. (discussing, particular, South's Civil War, typical rapes women punishable mandatory castration, whites death); Synagogue Council America relationship strong, involved particularly, present Negroes, almost uncontrovertible").5 52 end, "[w]e facts disclosed records black." 253, 2734 concurring) ("racial proved"). focused uncontrolled juries. Such unbridled discretion, argued, practically invited vent personal accused. 69-5003, knew else except race"). laws standards govern People live dependent whim 12." capriciously selected random handful imposed," tolerate "so wantonly freakishly" inflicted. practice delegating authority—a "largely desire mitigate harshness community bear sentence"—actually allowed "in own violating trust policy, [to] crime." 2764 53 standardless "rational basis," Brennan it, distinguish die go prison." 294, 2754 ("no distinguishing"). doubted behind condemnation specter prejudice—the paradigmatic capricious irrational factor. 54 inception, line sprang underlay Furman. enacted statutes. Gregg 153, 179-180, 2909, 2928, 859 (opinion single 1976, passed representative sample laws.6 controlling STEVENS. squarely argument circumstances. 176-187, 2926-2932. States' distilling complementary rationalizing discretion: "directed limited" avoid "wholly arbitrary action," 189, 2932-2933, exercised informed manner." minimize [will] group offenders, ha[s] guided focus defendant." 199, 2937. "given regarding State, representing organized deems decision." 192, 2934. "Otherwise, function rational 2932-2933 55 Gregg's crime—in words, traditionally accepted criteria, 189-190, 2932-2933—added dimension Furman's open-ended factors, individual, merely group. itself, example, accused: "About himself, according old 'Superior Upholstery.' took hour minutes return verdict guilt 295, 48, 2755 (Brennan, irrelevant accidental. Without characteristics crime, uninformed tempted resort considerations, animus. 56 striking down provisions Carolina Louisiana. schemes "guide[d] focuse[d] offender." 273-274, 2957 "essential" factor ha[d] determine." 2958. featured addi tional safeguard arbitrariness caprice": provision automatic appeal influence passion prejudice disproportionate similar 198, 2937-2938. statutes, reasons. First, believed, departed "contemporary standards" 2982, Second, experience suggested "simply papered over problem unchecked discretion" provoking nullification. 302-303, 2990-2991. "[i]nstead process, exacerbate identified resting lawlessly." 303, 2991; Roberts Louisiana, 335, 3001, 3007, 974 Third, nature offense," treated persons "not uniquely human beings, faceless, undifferentiated mass." Woodson, 304, 2991. Douglas's fallen "member[s] minority." One eliminating explicit treating equally, perfectly legislative Roberts, 346, 3012 Walton Arizona, 639, 662, 3047, 3062, 511 (1990) (SCALIA, correct concluding "a provide crimes conclusively establishes criminal's deserves 358, 3017. 431 633, 649, 97 1993, 2001, 637 (1977) (REHNQUIST, dissenting); Sumner Shuman, 483 66, 86, 2716, 2728, erred equating "raw [jury] nullification" unlimited condemned 347, curious counterintuitive outcomes 1976 cases—upholding explicitly preserved sentencer's vacating perceived discretion—might measure attributable, again, powerful concerns.7 Be may, confronted sen tencing provision, occasion flesh disagreement prohibition schemes. 59 point purposes Sumner's invalidation guaranteed exercise degree And precedents, turn, unavoidably up requirements Gregg: foremost, "provided guide information" developed sentencing, second, "apprised sentence." 195, 2935. discovering ensuring progeny always play, seemingly permanent business supervising procedures. better Unusual Clause intended substantive limitations punishments, procedural Hudson McMillian, 995, 999-1000, 156 (1992) (THOMAS, dissenting) 2-3); Gardner 430 349, 371, 1197, 1211, 393 dissenting), stare decisis adhere Amendment 672, 3067 60 branch jurisprudence outgrowth Furman/Gregg requirements. (1978)—that aspect 2964-2965 Burger, C.J.) removed) effectively guarantees access favorable built premise, credence "where granted, judge's possession fullest [h]ighly relevant." 602-603, 2964 failed satisfy requirement, eliminated "comparatively minor offense." 608, 2967.8 adoption (1982), corollary categorically circumstances—again notion crime. 112, 875 (relying 197, 2936). 61 Therefore, although represent "about-face" pre-Furman days," 622, 623, 2983 part, judgments), root logical—if attenuated connection prophylactic Eddings. protects accused's "appris[e]" version decision. Our early little safeguarding adversary conferring right 4, 1670-1670, Cf. 5, 1671 (comparing elemental 'on deny explain.' 362, 1206-1207, (1977)"). 62 Consistent (admittedly narrow) reading, describe kind evidence: governs admissibility purport define criteria facts. "consider" "relevant" circumstances, mean wishes. value. eclipse primary imperative Furman—that "standards [the sentencer's] use" That independently rule. effectiveness danger irrationally. 63 realize, course, susceptible expansive interpretations. See, e.g., Walton, 661, 3061-3062 judgment) (Eddings "has completely exploded coherence 'guided discretion' had" "random mitigation" requirement); 306, 1774 ("States decline [death] respect, defendant"). narrow still implies outer boundary principle: chosen stingy prevent 64 careful narrowly effort accommodate "competing commandments" ante, (whether aggravating) bears 652, 3056 ("[T]here unfettered structure achieve equitable penalty") Boyde 370, 377, 1190, 1196, 316 (to effect); 181, 2331, (plurality) (same); (requirement long type evidence); Blystone Pennsylvania, 299, 307-308, 1078, 1083-1084, 255 490-491, 1260-1261, (same). 65 understanding preserves rationale statute—that "guides circumstances" allowing [relevant] show." 274, 2956, 2957. reaffirming Texas's satisfaction successfully reconciled exists 2332 (plurality). context system, am unprepared sweep away precedent. token, prevail forced rule, construed, truly "rationally and, basis, deserving rejection. 673, 3067-3068 66 Unfortunately, contribution rationality consistency taken back upset achieved 67 "consider to" abuse, 2951, full "relevance culpability 2948 added). persuaded "unable express 'reasoned punishment." post, Contrary dissent's ____, notions—that goes "beyond scope" State's "reasoned response" presented—have pedigree holdings. They originated entirely whole cloth opinions. 185, 2333 judgment); 545, 841, 68 Together, notions render meaningless negate tenet 1972. imposes simply dumps sympathetic offense, guidance" 359, 2968 part). "It unguided, 'moral response' demands allowed—an outpouring reaction personality, unfocused sympathy." fears. "construed enough potential," "for purposes, specifically questions," ____ emphasis 69 Any fitting one, judge, legislature. beware word "moral" vessel nearly infinite capacity—just benevolence, cloak latent secretly caprice outright prejudice. jurors "full effect" label "moral," thrown door sentencing. 360, 2968-2969 unitary one; deem sad wished, circle, permitting condemned"). 70 reasoned, murderers subject narrowed, infirmity allows recommend mercy 327, 2951 (citing 197-199, 203, 2936-2937, 2939 (joint 222, judgment)). 1777 (discussing benefits discretionary leniency). sufficiently narrowed death-eligible murderers, select individuals favored remain unbounded. head, argue just systems continue permit leniency, withhold sympathy bias, matters crimes. Surely exactly argued Roberts. 7, manifest lenient [also] discriminate.' 312, 1778 K. Davis, Discretionary 170 (1973)). ("It undeniable save major contributing developments led invalidate ").9 consistently mercy—even mitigate" —is indistinguishable 2764, 2765 (condemning "refuse crime") 2958 (Texas's "does extend dispense mercy"); 3007 opinion) (Louisiana's "plainly invites" "choose lesser feel inappropriate"). For reason, refused disapprove directing 'not swayed mere sympathy,' "foste[r] Amendment's 'need reliability case.' 539, 543, 838, 840 305, 2991 opinion)). Accord, 493, 1262-1263 ("Whether juror feels depend juror's actual reconcile vagaries jurors' sensitivities longstanding recognition all, reliable, accurate, nonarbitrary"). 72 reintroduces risks eliminate simple directive events years, acknowledged undirected discriminatory sentencing—a settled area force decisis. overruled.10 III 73 "reasoned" continually verify basis" predictably shall Spaziano 468 447, 460, 104 3154, 3162, 340 (1984); 541, 839; Barclay 463 939, 960, 3418, 3430, 77 1134 (1983) ("A constant theme protections consistent, manner"); 323, 1783 ("[C]oncern whole, features influenced regarded rational"). absence satisfying demands—providing "guided channeled examination Proffitt 242, 258, 2960, 2969, 913 74 complements consistency, rationality. Quite opposite, demonstrates. imperative, designed legislatures deliberations. "capital expression society's outrage offensive conduct" 'channeling th[e] instinct [for retribution] justice promoting stability governed law.' 2930 308, 2761 concurring)). If constitutional, administer 75 enforce truce need arguably manner, fair apprise easily standard. "In insofar (1) deliberateness, dangerousness, meets jurisprudence." 358-359, 76 predicate, moreover, leave elected legislators, "representing society," "particularly indicate offense,' Ultimately, retain traditional authority' broad described instance," 11, 1674 (Powell, 12, 2965), "[t]his expertise speculative insubstantial merit sentencer." 15, 1676.11 propose reasonableness determinations circumstances—within bounds mandated Every month, victimization file petitions ask declare criteria. voluntary intoxication drug use. Or astonishingly—evidence suffers chronic "antisocial personality disorder"—that sociopath. Pet. Cert. Demouchette Collins, O.T.1992, 92-5914, cert. denied, 505 27, 120 952 carry business, makes mockery inspired 78 reasons, disturb system. 79 dissenting. 80 Neither victim play THOMAS points out, routinely violated Amendment, infected Ante, played development jurisprudence. Where remarkable somehow threatens progress determination. 81 erected safeguards notwithstanding minority proportionality analysis,1 offenses. Specifically, unintentional homicide referred Enmund 458 782, 3368, 1140 (1982); Coker 433 584, 2861, 982 (1977). demanded eligible definitions specification exclusion significantly minimized process.2 pointed (1987), strong offenders eradicate penalty.3 83 vague actually enhance Maynard Cartwright, 486 356, 1853, 100 372 (invalidating "especially heinous, atrocious, cruel" circumstance); Godfrey 446 420, 1759, 398 (1980) "outrageously vile, horrible inhuman" circumstance). An invites "heinous" "inhuman" increase, decrease, chance decisionmaking, creating room prejudices. fail cabin death-eligibility, pose "evident danger" warns. 84 Finally, end dealing death-eligible, insist (1978). already compromises "rationalizing principle," 238 (1972). 715-719, 3090, reduces race. illustrates point. woman,4 "did record, lack intent death, relatively 597, 2961. excluded determination, more, left rely precedent, critical protection consonant THOMAS' explains why increases More specifically, race-based decisionmaking. 86 join, demonstrated faithful goal eradicating share THOMAS. 87 O'CONNOR 88 seek claiming retroactivity doctrine (1989) bar claim. 314-319, 1077-1080. distinctions consideration, distance stops short difference stands. claims merits: unfortunate decent issues.1 be, reverse remand resentencing. From judgment, respectfully dissent. 89 prisoner receive proven hard apply. crucial term ways. breaks ground Government. novelty "developmen[t] [could] disagree." 234, 2827, (1990), wholly deferential standard, conflicting alone imply conflict one. 1140, emerged factual setting amount Wright West, 2482, 2497, 225 joined BLACKMUN ("If pre-existing precedent's underlying applies, meaningful, deviation reasonable"); 2502 (KENNEDY, ("Where beginning application, evaluating myriad contexts, infrequent yields novel forges precedent"); 2502, (Teague mean, identical own"). said, 2952, approach 2944. 1986. 474 1073, 834, 805 68,916, employed majority, rendered [petitioners'] conviction[s] 314-315, 2944-2945. "entitled decisions," id. 315, 2945, comparable claim, Graham. description indeed, Of said: "[He] challenge (1976). 175, 2328, 185-186, 2333-2334 Instead, [he] argues 94 say: "Lockett underscored 'turns 272 2956]. indicated 'survived ] question—despite narrowness—so "whatever show.' 607 [98 2965]." 317, 2946. reaffirmation "at final," did, not, assurances present." 318, 2947. contends honored too, "those [on rests] fulfilled instructions, [his] rendering claim: 99 seeks—that presented, must, request, imposed—is Lockett. based, 'impos[e] obligation' Texas. 1070." Thus involved. "mental childhood"; involves youthfulness, character. assertion flies face KENNEDY's last Term, quoted before, contexts [will infrequently] yiel[d] precedent." material, asks assess whereas decency some.2 evidence; partial demanding issue. "new," follows either. reached respondent concedes asserting cured supplemental likewise barred." Respondent 29, 10.3 assumption additional instruction "mitigating relevance" dangerousness reiterates defendant's] evidence," 2949, SCALIA's "[w]hat 'fully consider' (what Jurek) questions." 355, 2966 358-360, 2967-2968,4 correctly itself. aside dissent, opinions obviated happenstance differently today, fit raise again. controls 105 merits claim,5 us.6 again controls, reasons anticipated analysis, expansion here. Following grant vacate remand. vote construed instances thrust substantially 1009, 1027 1992) (en banc). "transitory," "uniquely handicaps burdened fault own." lends limitations, odds disturb. "State 'narrow punishment,' 'specific detailed guidance' 1773, 196, 2936, 2967, (1976)). [nonetheless] limits 1773 limitation deleted). doing, [cannot] proffers 2965 original; footnote follow "[a]ny 'compassionate stemming diverse frailties humankind' treat 'uniquely beings.' McCleskey, 2991, assesses (as looking backward distinct strictly taken. acted deliberately, third assessment provocation response. Each past act. calls prediction behavior, utilitarian sense legitimately prefer preserve lives endanger others future, threats. exhaust fact,7 wide compass crimes, duress, pressure associated instant comprehensive revealed, confirm, confirmed required, challenges sustained statute's withstand challenge. resulting 2949,8 straightforward sentencing.9 "as turn. first, "deliberate[ness]," culpability, dangerousness." latter, "two-edged sword diminish[ing] future," dilemma meet obligations. Finally believed lacked ["provocation"] provocation." 324-325, 2950. tendency impossible. C falls categories. each, analytical steps undertook effect. youth. convicted, six Youth reducing cognitive immaturity inexperience responsible, 115-116, 877-878, youthfulness seen transitory, indicating future. 114 retardation, "deliberateness" trial explanation jury. formal "deliberate" meant, voir dire "intentional," 90, 127, 169, 205-206, 246, 291, 319-320, 353, hardly exhaustion person "intentionally," limiting 'lack[s] experience, perspective, judgment,' expected adults." 116, Bellotti Baird, 443 635, 3035, 3044, 797 (1979)). 115 difficulty "major thrust" calling errors seen. satisfies states demand evidence" "fully," 2946, complete given. ("[A]ny exclusion" requirements). recognize evanescent tending imprisoned life, test culpability.10 116 thinking possibility ages. terms "whether society." 37.071(b)(2) boy killed promptly tried was) error condition permanent. fleeting; fleeting aggravating, mitigating. taking vastly intensified remarks vandalism property scratching someone's car tearing lawn high school riding motorcycle 128-129, 172, 210, 247-248, 321-322, 354-355, 389-390, 422, 455. shooting robbery, situation event. 118 responses "lacked controlled required. upbringing, mother's illness repeated hospitalization, shifting custody relation young, see, 115, deforming affect Where, obviously deliberateness intention, assurance provocation. Again, find. redeeming voluntarily helped parents grandparents household chores, religious contributed money earned job father. 121 matters. Insofar tended paint danger, unable, alleges, culpability," 36, 37, 39, de minimis. Voluntary attendance relative, supplying level one's damage may. understand arguing revealing element value unrelated 186, 2334 2335 address preceding vacated, resentencing syllabus prepared Reporter Decisions convenience reader. Detroit Lumber Co., 200 337, 282, 287, 499. Legislature amended 1991. Those changes Appeals. 1012, (1978) review. 2944-2947. presented: 2945. together (1972): 69-5031. dismissed moot. 406 813, 1931, surprised discover home trying escape, accidentally tripped wire, causing fire closed door, victim. 294-295, 2754-2755, According published lawyer participated campaign, Fund—though South—did broader until "strong foundation" strategy. 27-35. Rudolph Alabama, 375 889, 155, (1963) (Goldberg, Brennan, (calling rapist endangered life" lines "seem worthy consideration"). 25: "[L]awyers attempting egalitarian humanitarian reforms reluctant lifetime-appointed somewhat insulated ebb flow public legislators executives." Government 1945 1965, data blacks Amicus O.T. 1975, 74-6257, 4a. Furthermore, stated, [the] question, southern states, 5a. eventually rapists excessive (1976); black. addition contending Carolina's Louisiana's key junctures selective importantly acquit convict charges. Petitioners 75-5491, 22-39; 75-5844, 30-65. unsuccessful white. 68. aided abetted armed robbery resulted murder. She drove getaway intend 589-591, 2956-2958; 613-617, 2969-2971 considerably elaborate retained whatever, subjective wrong." 2995-2996, regrettable predictable consequence react subjectively "all" 3A 37.071(2)(e) Supp.1993) (applicable offenses 1991). implicitly overruled respects. gave dramatically "limi[t] [a considered." 1262. 'a expressing deserve 379, 1197 original) 326, 2950). run afoul "there challenged inhibition." 380, 1198. Under Sentencing Reform Act, Congress Commission study specified "have 994(d). directive, issued guidelines providing, things, race, sex, national origin, creed, religion, socio-economic Commission, Guidelines Manual 5H1.10 (Nov.1992). education, vocational skills, inappropriate factors. 994(e). ordinarily sente nce outside applicable guideline range." USSG ch. pt. H, intro. comment. Similar guidelines, me, rationalization process.1 Harmelin Michigan, 501 2680, 836 (1991). indication make, worthwhile note forcible kidnaping 715, fear acceptance McCleskey's sound knell Georgia. choose racially (one provides heightened 'for only') choice plain. unfounded. lessons Baldus exist extremely serious prosecutors seek, impose, offender. categories, decreased, eradicated. BRENNAN restructuring price pay." 367, 1806, citation 1977, 76-6997, 10.1 statute. that: "(b) presentation [at trial], submit "(2) "(3) deceased. "(e) returns submitted article, Crim.Proc.Ann. 37.071 Supp.1992). background. regard, force, explain why, reasoning, ante (undifferentiated references "Graham's evidence"). Respondent's -barred "his extensive statute." 13. sustaining overruled, Teague." 10. However, overruled. "full" 12. respondent's (arguing, remains available, as-applied statute," poses, hence considered"). responding presenting Johnson (cert. pending) 92-5653; pending); 91-7399; Boggess 91-5862. says Whether failure request procedure; appellate affirmance rest state-law ground. addressed 37. event, procedurally mitigating-evidence requested objection Selvage 816 390, 392 (Tex.Crim.App.1991); Black 350, 362-369 367-374 (Campbell, adequacy us. Or, ways previously mentioned (referring "positive penalty"); (character "redeeming features" reveal "virtues fairly balanced interest defendant] retribution crime"). My analysis today Franklin. infra, ----. 2956 Powell JJ.) ("[T]he factors"). argues, 911, "originated opinions," concurring), judgment), "unbridled" withheld handed constitutionally-relevant (the below) 2982 judgments) added) (Lockett "requir[es] authorities circumstances"). 1672, (1986) ("Assuming Court] precluding introducing admissible convincing spared pos e undue jailers fellow prisoners useful bars imprisonment, pass muster "); 1774, 184-185, 2332-2333 191-192, 2336-2337 'deems decision,' (1976)), dates, latest, 1982, 1989. There Brown phrase response," adverts shorthand mandate. 841. shorthand. acknowledges, think everyone 'capital conduct,' opinion)), reminds one." THOMAS's concern, "sympathy group," great seriousness. Lockett-Eddings "unbounded" Constitutionally-relevant "any committed. inappropriately free. 8, 4. propriety parole.

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