Legal Document

497 U.S. 639 110 S.Ct. 3047 111 L.Ed.2d 511 Jeffrey Alan WALTON, Petitionerv.ARIZONA. No. 88-7351. Argued Jan. 17, 1990. Decided June 27, Rehearing Denied Aug. 30, See 1050, 14. Syllabus Petitioner Walton was found guilty in an Arizona court of first-degree murder and sentenced a separate sentencing hearing before the judge, as required by state law. Under that law, inter alia, determines existence aggravating mitigating circumstances "shall impose" death sentence if he finds one or more several enumerated there are no sufficiently substantial to call for leniency. The burden is on prosecution establish defendant ones. judge death, after finding presence two circumstances—that committed "in especially heinous, cruel depraved manner," it pecuniary gain—and that, considering all factors urged Walton, did not State Supreme Court upheld sentence. In independent review, concluded evidence sufficient prove both factors. As first factor, noted had previously defined "especially cruel" mean victim suffered mental anguish his depraved" perpetrator relished murder, evidencing debasement perversion. also agreed were leniency determined proportional sentences imposed similar cases. Held: judgment affirmed. 159 Ariz. 571, 769 P.2d 1017 (1989), Justice WHITE delivered opinion with respect Parts I, II, V, concluding: 1. Arizona's capital scheme does violate Sixth Amendment. Constitution require every fact underlying decision be made jury rather than judge. Clemons v. Mississippi, 494 738, 745, 1441, 1446, 108 725; Hildwin Florida, 490 638, 109 2055, 104 728. Since standards guide making choice between verdicts life imprisonment "elements offense," judge's any particular circumstance penalty, failure find preclude penalty. Poland Arizona, 476 147, 106 1749, 90 123. Moreover, Enmund 458 782, 102 3368, 73 1140—that killed, attempted kill, intended kill—be proved element offense jury, cannot denominate "elements" permit only determine such circumstances' existence. Pp. 647-649. 2. cruel, circumstance, construed Court, furnishes guidance sentencer satisfy Eighth Fourteenth Amendments. court's definition virtually identical construction approved Maynard Cartwright, 486 356, 364-365, 1853, 1859-1860, 100 372. Similarly, its "depraved" faulted. Although juries must instructed bare terms about unconstitutionally vague face, trial judges presumed know law apply narrower definitions their decisions. supra, at 358-359, 363-364, S.Ct., 1856-1857, 1858-1859; Godfrey Georgia, 446 420, 426, 1759, 1763, 64 398, distinguished. Walton's challenge Court's proportionality review—that should overturned because distinguish case from others which imposed—is rejected. Such review constitutionally where, here, challenged factor has been manner give guidance. Furthermore, this look behind conclusion where plainly undertook good faith. 652-656. WHITE, joined THE CHIEF JUSTICE, O'CONNOR, KENNEDY, III IV: Amendment rights have violated placing him proving preponderance leniency, since method allocating burdens proof lessen State's circumstances. Cf., e.g., Martin Ohio, 480 228, 107 1098, 94 267. Lockett 438 586, 98 2954, 57 973; Mullaney Wilbur, 421 684, 95 1881, 44 508; Mills Maryland, 367, 1860, 384, 649-651. Blystone Pennsylvania, 299, 1078, 255, Boyde California, 370, 1190, 316, foreclose argument statute creates unconstitutional presumption under Amendments proper requiring penalty specified neither precludes type nor automatically imposes certain types murder. States free structure shape consideration attempt achieve rational equitable administration 651-652 SCALIA will longer seek apply, not, here future, vote uphold claim based upon, principle Woodson North Carolina, 428 280, 96 2978, 49 944, 973, may precluded factor. This rationally irreconcilable Furman 408 238, 92 2726, 33 346—that sentencer's discretion return constrained specific standards, so inflicted random capricious fashion. requires constraints "impose" while Woodson-Lockett forbids "decline it—which same. Amendment's text arguably supports view unfettered makes infrequent make imposition unusual, bears relation text. Nor doctrine stare decisis adherence Woodson-Lockett, objectives doctrine, certainty predictability, demonstrably undermined furthered rest jurisprudence upon incompatible principles. Thus, even correct, assertion respects procedure deprived consider violation. 656-674. J., announced REHNQUIST, C.J., SCALIA, JJ., joined, IV, joined. filed concurring part judgment, post, p. 656. BRENNAN, dissenting opinion, MARSHALL, 674. BLACKMUN, STEVENS, 677. 708. Timothy K. Ford, Seattle, Wash., petitioner. Paul Joseph McMurdie, respondent. KENNEDY 1 At issue validity petitioner committing 2 statutes provide person commits "[i]ntending knowing conduct cause causes another premeditation" course offenses without other what commission offenses, person. Ariz.Rev.Stat.Ann. § 13-1105 (1989). After crime accordance provisions 13-703(B). It directed "separate . shall conducted alone" whether imprisonment. hearing, nonexistence subsections (F) (G) 13-703. Subsection defines 10 considered. One them expectation receiving anything value. 13-703(F)(5). Another manner. 13-703(F)(6). "which relevant determining impose less including aspect defendant's character, propensities record offense, but limited to" five factors.1 establishing prosecution, defendant. 13-703(C). special verdict setting forth findings then subsection section leniency." 13-703(E). 3 * codefendants, Robert Hoover Sharold Ramsey, went bar Tucson, night March 2, 1986, intending rob someone random, steal car, tie up, leave desert they fled car. bar's parking lot, trio encountered Thomas Powell, young, off-duty Marine. three robbed Powell gunpoint forced into car drove out desert. While driving asked questions lived money. When stopped, Ramsey told frightened would hurt. lie face down ground near debated do him. Eventually, sit turn radio up loud. took .22 caliber derringer marched off walking short distance, ground, placed foot Powell's neck, shot once head. later "never seen man pee pants before." body approximately week later, arrested led police site. A medical examiner blinded rendered unconscious immediately killed. Instead, regained consciousness, apparently floundered desert, ultimately died dehydration, starvation, pneumonia day found. 4 convicted being given instructions premeditated felony argued present: (1) 13-703(F)(6), (2) gain. mitigation presented testimony psychiatrist who opined long history substance abuse impaired see 13-703(G)(1), abused sexually child. counsel age, 20 time sentencing, circumstance. 13-703(G)(5). "beyond doubt" Powell. pressed present. stated considered age capacity appreciate wrongfulness conduct, well counsel. "no App. 61. death. 5 affirmed conviction Relying prior decisions, rejected various challenges constitutionality statute, some proceeded order "ensure proven beyond reasonable doubt appropriate considered." Id., P.2d, 1032.2 began examining pointed when "the inflicts physical victim's death," id., 1032, (citations omitted), "[m]ental includes uncertainty ultimate fate." Ibid. case, ample death.3 conclude manner, pointing relishes perversion." 587, 1033.4 Additionally, gain 588, 1034. regarding youth, lenience." 589, 1035. Finally, "proportional cases." 590, 1036. 6 Because United Appeals Ninth Circuit held reasons submitted Adamson Ricketts, 865 F.2d 1011 (1988) (en banc), we granted certiorari, 493 808, 49, 18 resolve conflict settle issues importance generally We now affirm Court. II 7 constitutional decides present those findings. Contrary assertion, however: "Any prerequisite soundly decisions Court." 725 (1990). 8 repeatedly Florida's scheme, provides jury. 728 (1989) (per curiam); Spaziano 468 447, 3154, 82 340 (1984); Proffitt 242, 2960, 913 (1976). Hildwin, example, "[t]his presents us again question specify punishment Florida," U.S., 2056, authorizing jury." 640-641, 2057. 9 distinctions attempts draw Florida statutory schemes persuasive. true recommends sentence, factual regard recommendation binding assistance jury's Arizona. suggests "considerations" offense." But observed 123 (1986), case: "Aggravating penalties 'standards [the] choice' alternative itself 'convict' (i.e., penalty), 'acquit' penalty)." 156, 1755 (citation omitted). 11 Our holding Cabana Bullock, 474 376, 689, 88 704 further support our conclusion. appellate could 1140 (1982), finding—that kill—in instance. "Enmund, 'does affect state's substantive offense,' " 385, 696 "while prohibits execution defendants, supply new n. 3, 3. places "a limitation like limits need enforced 386, 697. If finding, 12 thus 13 Also unpersuasive contention violates defendants establishing, evidence, §§ 13-703(C) 13-703(E) refused countenance state-imposed restrictions deciding See, 604, 2964-2965, 973 (1978) (plurality opinion). complaining practice excludes evidence; follow progeny specifying how proved. Indeed, itself, expressly reserved "it bear risk nonpersuasion 609, 16, 2967, 16 14 267 (1987), Ohio imposing she acting self-defense allegedly Leland Oregon, 343 790, 72 1002, L.Ed. 1302 (1952), upheld, requirement defense insanity defendant, Rivera Delaware, 429 877, 97 226, 50 160 (1976), Patterson New York, 432 197, 2319, 53 281 (1977), due process standard affirmative extreme emotional disturbance. 15 basic these cases controls result case. So charged, circumstances, 508 (1975), contrary. struck grounds negate entitled voluntary manslaughter. No scheme. therefore decline adopt imperative rule claimed unless negated evidence. Neither 384 (1988), lend position. There reversed phase likely believe jurors unanimously focus read unanimity and, so, possible consequences understanding. Here, course, alone sentencer, beside point. 17 suggest forbidden each individual juror, weighing balance, convinced her own mind To contrary, 387, 1871-1872. hinted objection instructions. reject allocation proceeding Constitution. IV 19 insists "shall" insufficient recent 255 (1990), 316 submission. instruction Pennsylvania exist "[t]he individualized satisfied allowing evidence," 307, 1083 (footnote 308, 1084, consonant principle. addition, "impermissibly 'mandatory' term understood" 944 Roberts Louisiana, 325, 3001, 974 305, 1082. same statute. pattern "[i]f you outweigh death." 374, 1195 (emphasis specifically "there 'in effort penalty.' 377, 1196 (quoting Franklin Lynaugh, 487 164, 181, 2320, 2331, 101 155 opinion) ). arguments persuasive Boyde. V 21 final interpreted courts fails channel contends pass muster Oklahoma's atrocious, invalid 372 Georgia's "outrageously wantonly vile, horrible inhuman" 398 (1980). 22 Cartwright however, distinguishable significant respects. First, either nearly vague. 1763-1764. limiting Second, court, reviewing propriety purport applying facts presented. 364, 1859; 429, 1765 These points crucial reached Maynard. 1858-1859. They equally 23 essential properly facets process. enough instruct face. That import holdings Godfrey. logic place context Trial narrowed presume definition. irrelevant narrow narrowing applies improper construction, necessarily vacate Rather, eliminate altogether remaining warrant 24 federal application language defining too sentencer. terms, done sufficient, i.e., serious facially sought operative meets requirements. 25 Ariz., 1032. six days constituted cruelty within meaning situations suffering foreseeable killer. 1033. 26 expressed approval limit murders involving "some kind torture abuse," "that acceptable." 365, 1859. 27 255-256, 2968 (joint Stewart, JJ.). Recognizing degree nature susceptible mathematical precision, provision gives meaningful can fault statement "relishes perversion," "shows indifference evidences sense pleasure" killing. 28 nevertheless applied arbitrary applied, imposed. effect erroneous asks overturn it. do, just required, "lawfully [Walton's] 'wantonly freakishly' imposed— disproportionate recognized Amendment." McCleskey Kemp, 481 279, 306, 1756, 1774, 1775, 262 (1987); Pulley Harris, 465 37, 43, 871, 875-876, 79 29 (1984). faith his. 30 ordered. 31 judgment. 32 Today says broad instead imprisonment, An observer unacquainted (and habit thinking logically) probably say positions right. point out, unitary one—the select yet lack other. imaginary surprised discover past years, strong chance winning antagonistic claims, simultaneously—as evidenced four Members think win both, 677 (BLACKMUN, dissenting), en banc panel Federal essentially 1011, 1029-1044 (CA9 1988). shows parted ways. I write separately explain why, branches jurisprudence. agree analysis petitioner's claim, concur V. second A. 34 Over assumed role rulemaking States' sentencing—effectively proceedings adjudication guilt, see, 301-305, 2989-2992, (1976) opinion); Gregg 153, 195, 2909, 2935-2936, 859 (opinion announcing judgment), dictating extent have, (1980), categories admitted, Skipper South 1, 1669, (1986); Booth 482 496, 2529, 440 undertaking minute inquiries wording ensure understand duties labyrinthine code rules, Caldwell 472 320, 105 2633, 86 231 (1985); prescribing procedural forms follow, McKoy 433, 1227, 369 development 346 (1972) curiam ), come stand 35 Furman, men rape, gave complete crimes, deem relevant. brief per decision, carrying constitute unusual violation Amendments." 239-240, 2727. uncover opinions Justices forming majority, whom wrote none other's opinion. Of opinions, rested broadest ground—that 2760 (BRENNAN, concurring); 369-371, 2792-2794 (MARSHALL, concurring). third, Douglas, discretionary systems petitioners operated discriminated against racial minorities unpopular groups. 256-257, 2735-2736 (concurring 36 critical light subsequent jurisprudence, Stewart WHITE. focused infrequency seeming randomness which, systems, wrote: 37 "These way lightning unusual. For, people rapes 1967 1968, many reprehensible these, among capriciously selected handful [T]he tolerate infliction legal unique freakishly imposed." 309-310, 2762-2763 (footnotes 38 view. "as administered, infrequently threat attenuated service criminal justice." 313, 2764. "[T]here basis distinguishing few not," ibid., constitutes "pointless needless extinction marginal contributions discernible social public purposes," 312, punishment, mandatory system everyone received "present quite different issues." 310-311, (WHITE, 307-308, 2761-2762 (Stewart, 39 least procedures eliminated conferred withhold 179, 2928. 1976, "guided discretion" representative measures, varying forms, reaching decision. principal three-Justice "mandat[ing] afforded matter grave determination human taken spared, suitably minimize wholly action," 189, 2932 JJ.) added). 221-222, 2947-2948 Burger, judgment); 251, 2966, JJ.); 260, 2970 Jurek Texas, 262, 276, 2950, 2958, 929 2959-2960 judgment). 40 1976 cases, routinely standing proposition "channelling penalty" "fundamental requirement," 362, 1858, insisted furnish 'clear objective standards' 'specific detailed guidance,' 'make reviewable death,' 428, Only twice actually invalidated inadequate Maynard, 362-364, Godfrey, 428-429, 1764-1765, 1767, incanted "unbridled unacceptable, Penry 492 302, 326, 2934, 2951, 256 constrain meted arbitrarily capriciously," California Ramos, 463 992, 999, 103 3446, 3452, 77 1171 (1983), criteria decisionmaker's judgment," "death [must] structured prevent administered unpredictable fashion," Brown, 479 538, 541, 837, 839, 93 934 "procedural protections consistent, Barclay 939, 960, 3418, 3430, 1134 (1983) (STEVENS, "[States] administer [the death] individuals sanction 460, 3162, Zant Stephens, 462 862, 2733, 2742, 235 (1983); Eddings Oklahoma, 455 104, 110, 869, 874, 71 (1982); 51, 879-880, 502, 2532-2533; 1865; Lowenfield Phelps, 484 231, 244, 546, 554, 568 (1988). B 41 Shortly introducing developing forbidding 304, 1773 deleted). doctrine—counterdoctrine better word—has completely exploded whatever coherence notion had. 42 Some responded plurality concluding accord "character offender." Woodson, 2991 Other leaving spare kinds consider. (1978), saying "not considering, character proffers 2964-2965 omitted reasoning pluralities adopted majority Sumner Shuman, 483 66, 2716, 56 (1987) (embracing ); supra 43 Furman. might supposed curtailing eliminating consistent positively it—as States, suppose. Lockett, emerged uniform treatment offenders Amendment, prohibited. Announcing "[c]entral [Eighth] contemporary punishment," 288, 2983, steady growth over previous 150 years (those very 291-292, 2984-2985, convinced, unconstrained unguided evaluation offender 304-305, 2991-2992; 604-605, 2964-2965. short, described pronounced prohibited, renamed required. elaborated since, prevented most minimal decide eligible nonetheless receive place, rebuffed efforts exercise rest. misdescribe sweep "all evidence" assume criterion mitigating, precisely forbidden. proudly announce effectively excluding record, surrounding crime: poor childhood, rich spoiled childhood; great love race, pathological hatred race; capacity, brilliant contribution society; mother, despised mother. Whatever bearing wishes introduce rendering deserving admitted 597, 2961 ("character, intent relatively minor crime"); 107, 872-873 (inter "parents divorced old, until [he] mother rules supervision"); Hitchcock Dugger, 393, 397, 1821, 1824, 347 "petitioner seven children family earned living picking cotton; father cancer; fond affectionate uncle"); 4, 1670 (that well-behaved well-adjusted prisoner" awaiting trial). weight significance receive—for retardation insofar deliberately. Lyn- augh, 322-323, 328, 2952, let "give effect," 442-443, 1233, pleases. Nor, assigned task, structural rationality unanimously, 443, 1233; juror allowed effect" perception favors regardless perceptions command assent (or comprehensible to) jurors. 45 acknowledge perhaps inherent tension" line stemming 363, 1804 tension Allies Axis Powers World War II. And refer lines pursuing "twin objectives," 459, 3161-3162, referring twin evil. reconciled. Pursuant "to penalty," "channel 1764-1765. next breath, [mitigating] information offered defendant," 1774 added), enjoy sympathetic indicate "deserve 2951. latter obviously destroys predictability former designed achieve.* 46 contradiction requirements serve functions: serves "narrow" according class guarantees "an assessment appropriateness penalty." 317, 2946; 878-879, 2743-2744. "individualized assessment" here. asserts theCon stitution permits condemnation masse. whether, determination, society relevant, not—whether insist sentencers determinations standard. involved less. Having held, advance, able qualify "class eligibles"—from unspecified mercy words, classification versus individuation opposite factors; merely describing treatment. What determinations, remains why demands accorded impossible why. (does deserve crime?) answer "no" reason deems morally indeed, sufficient), becomes consistency preserved strictly "yes." fact, "freakishness" evident detail, treatment, wish, murderers, murderers whose crimes gravity. difficult justify permitted allow mitigation; simultaneously absurd. WHITE's observation represents sheer "about-face" outright negation guided brought path regulating place. 622, 2982 part, judgments). C 47 simultaneous pursuit contradictory produces confusion. JUSTICE elaborating gone pillar sort legislatures, courts, necessity rely sacrificed." 629, 2973 (REHNQUIST, dissenting). Repeatedly legislatures discretion-reducing principle, measures run afoul said 2735 (Douglas, 311-312, 2763-2764 concurring), schemes, response discretion. sustained provided necessary form criteria, (1976); confine contained (Florida); (Texas). encouraged "important additional safeguard arbitrariness" supporting 198, 2937 JJ.), meaningless whole) prohibiting For lawmakers, lesson worthless future; though approve seemingly today, retroactively prohibit tomorrow. 48 containing commands unconstrained, vast number plausible direction Conscientious obliged conscientious them. arisen, permanent floodtide stay applications petitions certiorari adverse judgments round direct collateral alleging novel defects arising permutation Lockett. attempting principles reluctant condemn virtual error committed, often suspend normal ear overconstrained underconstrained. ruling typically rise habeas review—and appeal courts. effects unpredictability alone, tip mountainous iceberg. granting February 21, 1989 (the Term's granted), 350 cases; granted, 84 Term; alone. Small wonder, then, statistics show approved, democratic people, theoretically seems unable function except parody swift timely justice. May 1990 2,327 row; executed 1972 NAACP Legal Defense Educational Fund, Death Row, U.S.A. Those executions carried occurred average eight crime. E. Carnes & S. Summary Post-Furman Capital Punishment Data VIII (unpublished report Alabama Assistant Attorneys General file Harvard Law School Library, 1988), cited Commentary, Harv.L.Rev. 1013, 1038, my view, reexamine area measure purportedly based. applicable Robinson 370 660, 666, 1417, 1420, 758 (1962), provides: "Excessive bail excessive fines imposed, punishments inflicted." 51 stands stark contrast fines, "excessive." involved, explicitly severe harsh, "unusual." it, be. prohibition punishments. regulate opposed punishment. observed, relates Gardner 430 349, 371, 1197, 1211, 393 (1977) elements prohibition, all, systematically render 52 (1972), supported already described, Part I-A, event ("wanto[n] freakis[h]," colorfully put it) become far discern (this occasion explore subject), meant "unusual punishment" Amendment—that say, originally traditional rarely traditional. phrase meaning. beginning century, convictions prescribed, H. Bedau, Penalty America 10-11 (3d ed. 1982); W. Bowers, Executions (1974), interpretation contradicted clear references permissible Constitution, Const., Amdt. 5; 14, am willing adhere precedent established hold adopts mandatory, bars giving recipients, convey governing (1988); matter. discern, death—without discretion—for traditionally punished possibly "cruel" (neither absolutely crime) "unusual" "freakishly" imposed). immaterial abandoned crime, favor opportunity 294-295, 2986-2987 still alleged be) touch 'contemporary community values' justice, 295, 2987 54 aware argument, 302-303, 2990; 333-335, 3006-3007 opinion), suffer characterize schemes. goes, frequently acquit crime; "jury nullification" occurs benefit State, "arbitrary sentences" obvious problem proves much, invalidating validates Woodson. ignore guilt similarly chafe provid[ing] requires. approach preferred, implausible arbitrariness juries' ignoring greater all. theory "unusualness" tenuous used invalidate standardless discretion; unwilling extend denied discretion, conjecture (found nowhere else law) disregard oaths. 55 Despite decisis. lightly, My initial fundamental problem, detail above, wrong, me inquiry wrong. them—or, precisely, Furman—if wanted to. continue "narrowing" enunciated achievement Woodson-Lockett. restraints Stare impossible. seem principles, error. adhering event. exists purpose stability protecting expectations institutions acted reliance existing rules. frustrated outset contradicting thrust much laying traps unwary generating signs ending diminishing. lacking unworthy Accordingly, unlawfully restricted. 58 turn, finally, claims 59 With conclusion, join portions manner—cruelty abuse, depravity relishing suffering—defines specificity death-eligible murders. precise enough, enable 60 circumstances: above states 61 62 MARSHALL joins, dissenting.* 63 cavalier today longstanding doctrines developed decades careful inquiry, added host examples crabbed context, (1990); cf. Saffle Parks, 484, 1257, 415 Sawyer Smith, 227, 2822, 193, losing sight responsibility BLACKMUN's today's punishment: "The fatal infirmity treats 'members race nonhumans, objects toyed discarded. [It is] inconsistent premise [Cruel Unusual Punishments] Clause vilest possessed common dignity.' 'subjects fate civilized guaranteed [Clause].' hold, prohibited Clause. 'Justice shocking "official" offering redress society, adds defilement first.' 230-231, 2972-2973, (dissenting footnote 65 257-306, 2735-2760, 66 Even dignity, concern dignity lying core 67 "A accords fixing possibility compassionate diverse frailties humankind. persons designated uniquely beings, members faceless, undifferentiated mass subjected blind 2991, 68 Thus [must be] principled humane sensible uniqueness individual." (1982).* 69 past, "this extraordinary prisoner guarantee, humanly possible, whim, passion, prejudice, mistake." 118, 878 (O'CONNOR, reflect, anything, opposing ought executepris oners little interference doctrine. 70 STEVENS join, dissenting. provisions, pertinent involves "sufficiently "heinous, authority consequence, unconstitutional. dissent affirmance During consistently stressed individualized-sentencing process, particularized aspects 303, "[a] humankind." 2991. 2964, (Emphasis original.) 114-115, 876-877, [state court] consideration."1 moreover, respected. 319, 2947, ("[I]t simply sentence"). 74 From closely related emerge. "qualitative difference" necessitates "reliability case." mandated "any 2965 unrestricted deemed reliable standards. recognizes produced differences false consistency." 112, 875. 75 upholds (a) failed (b) demonstrating progeny.2 plurality's discussion discuss inapposite. relies "analogous" involve Its thereby ignores thought settled distinctive sentencing. 76 flatly "[T]he included G defendant." McMurtrey, 143 71, 73, 691 1099, 1101 appropriate. Exclusion unsupported legitimate interest. analyze framework almost exclusively noncapital upholding right defense. ante, 3055. Reliance misplaced, inapplicable context. explained justification persuasion defenses State: 78 Due Process Clause, York abandoning disprove convict otherwise powers 80 ". [I]n instance intentionally killed person, act disputed criminalize punish. chooses recognize mitigates criminality assure certainty. issue, cumbersome, expensive, inaccurate." 207-209, 2326 81 power lesser": take lesser step inapposite introduces lacks exclude entirely.3 drawing outside sphere (with unlimited presentation evidence), purported prosecutions generally. sanctions degree." 303-304, opinion).4 deprive significance. 83 Application problematic "existence" "yes" given. Stebbing 469 900, 902-904, 277-279, 212 (1984) denial certiorari). lists conform significantly impaired. ." 13-703(G)(1) childhood sexual abuse. Presumably, suffers unaffected; time, rare deeply traumatized impairment actions. individual's behave lawfully "impaired" degree, either/or proposition. standard, encourages vaguely threshold "significance" reached, consequent appears Wallace, 151 369, 232, 239 (1986) ("[W]e 'difficult earlier years' use 'various drugs' affected 13-703(G)(1)"), cert. denied, 3243, 748 Rossi, 146 359, 706 379 (1985) (intoxication duress substantial); Woratzeck, 134 452, 458, 657 865, 871 (1982) (same); Nash, 392, 406, 694 222, 236 (State acknowledged circumstance"), 471 1143, 2689, (1985). falls below reduced stage balanced. misleading, instances, rejection proffered credited. belief impairment, proved, "significant" enough. guise proof, all.5 85 credibility unwarranted. Mitigating meet unreliable decision: Decisions innocence, cumulative pieces fully problems compounded 49% circumstances; conclude, weigh articulated justifications exists. asserted "[f]acts tend peculiarly knowledge 125 412, 416, 610 46, "[t]o impermissible State," Watson, 120 441, 586 1253, 1259 924, 99 1254, 478 (1979). Until never identified interest outweighs exist, interests advanced withstand scrutiny. 87 force offers innocence. binary choice: accepted not. acceptance results acquittal charge), real prejudice minimally practical rebut—especially anticipate offer. contrast, believes value, weight—weight persuasiveness—at balancing stage.6 served progeny. wide range evidence—evidence persuasiveness preponderance—that precedents, governmental impermissibly Amendment.7 89 Once established, mandates otherwise. provision, establishes "presumption death"8 indicated leniency" "outweigh" aggravation.9 "[w]hen remains, offended carry showing 1259. equipoise, runs directly counter "determination 91 takes hard-line position, cites precedents misplaced. "only circumstances." Blystone, 1079. evenly speak posed statute: permissibly balanced.10 dispositive question. conclusory assertion: "So Ante, 650. searches vain hint whenever "substantially outweigh" aggravation? presumptively rebutted "extraordinarily great"? formulations appear test: viz., excluded consideration.11 deliberations change outcome.12 Like analogy latitude sacrifice precision determinate restricting ability excuse. introduction declare irrelevant, unassailable. argue inappropriate shoulders persuading difference calls reliability imposed," 2964 personal culpability 327, squared doubtful resolved concluded: "There nothing implies restraint ordinary sensibility fairly 'outrageously inhuman.' 1765. Two Terms ago, Oklahoma inhuman' returned manner." 13-703(F)(6) (F)(6) circumstance). "[t]hese disjunctive; circumstance." Beaty, 158 762 519, 529 491 910, 3200, 708 relied primarily detailing injuries consciousness shooting.13 "committed extremely 56, finding. "independent review" shooting, foreseen survive wound. found, "Powell during ride uncertain march certain." 1017, 1033 comment hours shooting sustaining says, 653. notes "purport[ed] presented." Unlike controlling valid channeled "instructions" familiarity articulates coherent meaningfully homicides apply.14 expect issued (Jan. 1987), justifying omission refusal second-guess review. 655-656. distinguishes insists, barred adequate This, me, strange indeed.15 Had examined hard limitations scope define Knapp, 114 531, 562 435 908, 1458, 500 (1978). stated: words 'heinous, depraved' meanings intelligence understanding." 543, 716. culled Webster's Third International Dictionary: "heinous" "hatefully shockingly evil: grossly bad"; "disposed inflict pain esp. wanton, insensate vindictive manner: sadistic"; "marked debasement, corruption, perversion deterioration." Ibid.16 explained: "What legislature include killing wherein set apart usual norm." Gretzler, 135 42, 659 461 971, 2444, 1327 reviewed construing "cruelty distress visited victims, heinous go attitude reflected actions." 10.17 listed depraved. apparent killer," gratuitous violence victim," (3) mutilation (4) senselessness crime," (5) helplessness victim." 52, 11. disavow Knapp definitions; approval. 10. "Where discussed 'norm' murders, reverse 'especially manner.' 53, Gretzler continued identify heinousness shown victim, 368, 238 ("[T]he children, admittedly dispute danger him, 'shockingly evil mind' "); Zaragoza, 63, 69, 22, ("The old"), 1124, 3097, 1356 witness, Correll, 148 468, 481, 715 721, 734 Gillies, 142 564, 570, 655, 661 (1984), 470 1059, 834 141 510, 511-512, 687 1265, 1266-1267 killer, Fisher, 252, 686 750, 775, 1066, 548, 436 killer "special bullets tissue damage," "intentionally fir[ed] high-powered, destructive weapon Chaney, 1283 bound achieve" preventing escape, Villafuerte, 323, 331, 690 1230, 1234, 371 killer's "total life," 734. conditions depravity. observed: "Our violence, fashion acts murderers." Johnson, 147 395, 401, 710 1056 depraved—and fall covered "gratuitous violence" murderer uses kill Summerlin, 138 436, 675 686, Ceja, 126 35, 40, 612 491, 496 consequently dies lingering 1282. "senseless" depravity; witness depraved, circumstance,18 desire revenge buttress "relished" Jeffers, 404, 430, 1105, 1131, 464 199, 174 (1983).19 depraved) "steadfastly maintains did"—this remorse "cruelty" 716, dictionary 'cruel' 'disposed sadistic.' starting distinguished egregious "torture abuse." accord, 431, 1766 quarrel preceded deliberate blameworthy norm exception. expanded cover experienced fear fate.20 deliberately delayed protracted causing anguish. period extended duration: brief.21 explaining sorts referred killings conscious, ("[T]o distress, conscious committed. inconclusive exist"), (1989),22 contrasted instantly happened." measurable "principled not." 1767 entirely baffled majority's "virtually identical," abuse.23 correct asserting absence entire case" deficient. defined. requirements." 654. holds trial-level satisfactory independently cruel. reasons, accept fell Affirmance depends aggravation. Clemons, 756, 1452, incapable Amendment.24 hardly Court—a majority—who entrust task tribunal. large assertions "was clearly terrified stopped [one assailants] tried reassure hurt him" "begged him." citations (which frail characterization events), misreading brief.25 Given institutional generally, questionable Amendment.26 concerned, warranted tainted Whether supreme possesses power, law.27 remand, cured Compare ("As aside gain, reweigh factors"), 380 ("Because wrong factors, remand resentencing"); onerous remanded 500, 516, 662 P. 2d 1007, 1023 (court resentencing appeal), Rockwell, 161 5, 15-16, 775 1069, 1079-1080 outweighed factor); Poland, 144 388, 407, 698 183, 202 manner' aside, shown"); James, 141, 148, 685 1293, 1300 "[t]here [another] leniency"), 990, 332 Blazak, 131 598, 643 694, 700 (one invalidated, "[e]ven overcome circumstances"), 459 882, 184, 149 (1982).28 regards having comparison performed maintained: "Unlike non-capital duty examination Schad, 129 557, 573, 633 366, 382 (1981), 983, 1492, 693 (1982). "reweighing" Clemons. proceed errors historically level protection means ensuring rigorous Richmond, 186, 196, 560 41, gravity painstakingly examine erroneously imposed"), 433 915, 2988, (1977). functions out. resisted analogies process: "While perform court. therefore, single indivisible resembles followed utilization Rumsey, 136 166, 173, 665 48, (1983).29 Today's indicates, substitute proceeding, despite regarded affirming lower "reweigh" cure error, suspect. supplement replace distinction incorrectly informed "recommendation." rests elsewhere." 328-329, 2639. Just believed recommending procedure, stand, prepared assert assurance chosen reweighing defective. possible. save guidance, affirms made. vacated. sweeps broadly reach homicide. singled 112 follows flawed.30 defective stem abide because, assuming correctly articulate language. affirmance, followed. 113 concedes, must, adequacy through state-court precedents—an conspicuously declines undertake. utterly stand.31 Earlier Term severely restricted regime corpus helped accused crimes. Butler McKellar, 1212, notice claims. adjudicating inmates elsewhere, perfunctory reconcile display recognition concerning understanding operates. 115 Perhaps current grown weary explicating choose hypertechnical currently govern Certainly hoped scrupulously protect prospect oversight. Good wishes, abdication role, silent repudiation 116 dissent. 117 118 dissent, SCALIA's 119 Rev.Stat.Ann. 13-1105(C) "punishable 13-703." Section 13-703(B) requires, exist. admissible Rules Evidence. provides, present, Where exists, 'sufficiently leniency.' 55, (1983). highest punishable proved.1 121 receipt, value" 13-703(F)(5), (1989).2 are, 122 1791, became clear. By English homicide entrenched. fact-finder, offense. eligibility particularly established. Throughout history, subject assessments mind. Bill Rights adopted, unquestioned."3 124 arisen guarantee prevailed. eloquent Duncan 391 145, 1444, (1968), faithful Amendment: told. purposes written, England centuries impressive credentials traced Magna Carta. preservation operation major revolutionary settlement Declaration 1689. 18th century Blackstone write: 'Our wisely two-fold barrier, presentment liberties prerogative crown. necessary, preserving admirable balance constitution, vest executive laws prince: dangerous exerted check control, justices oyer terminer occasionally named crown; France Turkey, imprison, dispatch, exile obnoxious government, instant declaration pleasure. founders excellent forecast, contrived truth accusation, preferred indictment, information, appeal, afterwards confirmed unanimous suffrage twelve equals neighbors, indifferently superior suspicion.' 127 "Jury came colonists, 128 Constitutions reflect profound justice administered. oppression Government. constitutions knew experience unfounded charges enemies responsive voice higher authority. framers strove create judiciary action. Providing peers inestimable corrupt overzealous prosecutor compliant, biased, eccentric common-sense tutored reaction Beyond this, official power—a reluctance plenary liberty citizen group judges." 151-152, 155-156, 1448-1449, 1450-1451 130 Duncan, minimum McMillan 477 79, 2411, (1986). stretching exposed authority," encroached factfinding entrusted jury.4 Further distorting encompass unhappy product gradual "increase spread" utter disuse momentous concern."5 unfortunate stride late wise inspiring spoke Louisiana. announces henceforth adopting precedent. professed inability central (1972).6 subsist, palladium sacred inviolate, open attacks, hardy make) secret machinations, sap undermine it; methods trial, peace, commissioners revenue, conscience. however convenient first, (as doubtless powers, executed, convenient) remembered, delays, inconveniences price nations pay matters; inroads bulwark nation fundamentally spirit constitution; begun trifles, gradually increase spread, concern." Blackstone, Commentaries 343-344 (1769). characterized mandating "where action." 2932, flaws opinion,7 132 categorically rejects condemned size decided, Georgia forcible armed robbery, kidnaping, class. unquestionably played unacceptable die live. However, reduce arbitrariness, evaluating characteristics eligible. 133 elaborate empirical study illustrates theory. "One lessons Baldus prosecutors seek, impose, offender. categories, discriminatory decreased, eradicated." 1806 understood concept missed. quoted following excerpt analogizing pyramid: 'All category pyramid. flowing severity base apex, space beneath apex. planes division 137 'The plane separates manslaughter, involuntary justifiable plane, trier facts. fixed moved legislative act. factfinder Except treason aircraft hijacking, move Code Ann. 27-2534.1(c). 139 third separates, absolute factfinder. considers extenuation, aggravation 27-2503 27-2534.1. resting automatic procedure: influence factor; 27-2537. Performance remove result. 140 completely, factfinder's Unless ten reason. Waters 248 Ga. 355, 283 S.E.2d (1981); Hawes 240 334, 833 (1977); Fleming 142, guilt-innocence phases trial. relate 'A authorized passed one. enters determine, metaphor, passes imposed.' 250 97, 99-100, 297 3-4 (1982)." 870-872, 2739-2740. pyramid pyramid, remain. allows death—a common-law tradition case-by-case adjudication—provides guidelines mandate met. fit nicely Napoleonic drafted continental formulation Nation's sentences—a recounted length ignored remain Weems 217 544, 793 (1910), Trop Dulles, 356 86, 630 (1958), myself thereafter endorsed wiser, just, reactionary position espoused today. follows: "1. impaired, prosecution. "2. duress, although "3. legally accountable 13-303, participation minor, "4. reasonably cause, causing, "5. age." 13-703(G) challenge, repeated entered general verdict, Tison 137, 1676, participant recklessly indifferent 585, 1031. realized driven Tucson harmed, harmed. Then, noted, fate, eventually gun rope, surely realize going tied left unharmed. urinated himself. 586-587, 1032-1033. reference 'never before' "callous fascination murder" demonstrated killing." (to applied) undefined "tip pyramid" murder—the consisting apex detail. Post, 715-718 is, pyramid," assess bring (in specified) purpose. enacting post-Furman statutes, certainly them) confining sentencers' discretion—giving something wander unachievable—no narrowly defined—if account sure, discretion-limiting duplicate confined. requisite redefines latter, (I imagine basis) "pyramid" reconsider [This 89-189, Lewis 764, 3092, 606.] dismissing doctrinal reconciled reflects misdescription misunderstanding commanded explicit Court; proscription "must evolving decency mark progress maturing society." 101, (1958) 378, 553, (1910). concerns punishment; flows whereas irrational 2990. together "insis[t] fairly, consistency, all." 875 added); 326-328, 2950-2952, 714-719 117, 878. assert, 649-650. fifth expresses comports He argues, instead, overruled. Eight exposition observations: new—as citation then-Justice REHNQUIST's demonstrates. 667. vigorously opposed, intensely debated, (SCALIA, writing Court). considerations rule. indicates patently abruptly integrity adjudicative throughout raised addressed argument. disturbing decisive Justice's parties controversy, accepted. Member connection 633, 2976, part) shifting them"). "We commands, policy enacted statutes. profoundly penalties, avoid 2965. ask happen "moderate impairment." Presumably respond indicating "substantial." 366-367, 378-379 Rejection consideration"). recognized, weight. weighed substantial' converse true—one A.R.S. 13-454(D).' Brookover, 38, 601 1322, 1326 saved doubt. 1773, ("In carefully sentence") original). 1041 1988) pending, 88-1553. Jackson 837 1469, 1474 (CA11), 1026, 2005, McCall, 119, 125, 770 1165, (1989); Mauro, 208, 766 59, Moorman, 154 578, 744 679, 688 LaGrand, 153 563, 579, 872, 207, 105, 726 202, 207 911, 1359, 530 (1987). "reliable" balances triggered 78, 2724, (proof "do[es] case"; evidence). sentence"); 185, 2333, judgment) ("Indeed, objected dead. overruled he's testify goes cruelty. Tr. 233 26, 1987). torment events afterwards." "finding cruelty": constructions. 875, arguing safeguards adequately 44-54, 876-881. issue. strikingly 'heinous' wicked evil; 'atrocious' outrageously vile; pitiless, high pain, to, enjoyment of, sufferings others." 822 1477, 1488 (CA10 acknowledges, albeit obliquely, 652-653. Tenth Circuit's Knapp: "Vague suddenly terms." F.2d, 1489. "our 'mental victims.' 10, quoting Clark, 616 888, 896, 449 1067, 796, 13-703(F)(5) Tison, 526, 335 180, object obtain automobile, 542, 351, senseless, victims impeded theft defendants' plan, 352. 479, 732 (pecuniary accomplice "very robbery"); ((F)(6) "depravity unnecessary accomplish robbery"). motives Martinez-Villareal, 145 451, 702 670, 680 (murder demonstrate "manliness" manifest based"), 975, 339, 324 162, 920, 935 (finding victims' bodies 'message' warn people"), 467 1220, 2670, 375 Taken together, indisputable commit identifying killings. Bracy, 520, 537, 703 464, (1985), 1110, 898, 932 Carriger, 160, 692 991, 1009 1111, 2347, 864 480, 733. 377 ("Before fired shot, leaned bedroom wall pleaded stating 'You money, want?' evinces anguish"). Harding, 278, 294, 670 383, 399 246 28, focusing asserts: "It excruciatingly equivalent "torture." Brief Respondent 48-49. suffering, noting seeks penitentiary, date execution, "tortured" contemplate demise. technically dictum: vacated Clemons' Mississippi 750-752, 1449, 1450. passage Ramsey: "Q. How [Powell] pulled pullout got car? "A. scared. know? don't remember. scared wouldn't 24. taped interrogation guy Rob accomplices], tell anybody, ((inaudible))." (Dec. 15, ---). asserted, citation: "During ride, begged abductors keep money car." Appellee's Answering CR 87-0022-AP, 50. passing: shooting. (rather beforehand). statement. shot—an conflicting agree. 592-593, 1038-1039 deferentially "[a]s situated impact absent discretion." 48. point: "we 754, 1451 ("Nothing impression engage harmless proceeding. permissible"). 504, 707 289, 302 ("Our elimination resentencing") added) (citing cases). absent, harmless-error analysis. availability [does not] continuing work advantage." 203, 210, 2305, 2310, 164 sole decisionmaker proceeding." 211, 2310. "cruel." "cruelty," significant. discretion—whether itself. breadth found; expansive ensures plausibly discovered offenses," 1755, (double jeopardy challenge), operate absence, unavailable Cf. 88, 2417, (5-year available finding"); 696, (requiring comply offense). "whether engaged conduct" fullest characteristics." Williams 337 241, 246-247, 1079, 1083, 1337 (1949). Both courts' trial; disregarded irrelevant. 26-27, 1987); (testimony cruelty). 3157, (after recommended life, 639, curiam) status factors). White, Fact-Finding Penalty: Scope Defendant's Right Jury Trial, Notre Dame L.Rev. omitted; emphasis matters strongly guarded times difficulty danger, apprehended partiality appointed Crown, suits king subject, disputes another.' (1769)). practices, Green, Homicide, 1200-1600, Mich.L.Rev. 413 1451, (1968). 18th-century ruler judges, "voice authority" elected listen voters sifted patiently details propensity notwithstanding life? advised advisory Fla.Stat. 921.141 617 December 1989. Radelet, Rejecting Jury: Imposition U.C.D.L.Rev. 1409 (judges sentence). assumes pose (1972). 671-672. Carolina Louisiana 288-305, 2983-2991 ironically overlooks growing societal consensus penalty: reveals unduly harsh unworkably rigid. indicators respecting society—jury enactments—both conclusively sentences." 292-293, 2985-2986. humanity indispensable inflicting

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