In search of a death penalty martyr; media seeks to prove Georgia man was wrongly executed

Article Abstract:

The importance of DNA testing in bringing the issue of wrongful execution to the fore is discussed. The Georgia case of Ellis Wayne Felker provides the example, and the state's case against him led to conviction but was entirely circumstantial. The order for DNA testing came after Felker's execution.

Georgia, Usage, DNA testing, DNA identification, False imprisonment

---

Fake plea bargain in death case raises concerns

Article Abstract:

District Attorney E Michael Kavanagh of Ulster County, NY, plans to seek the death penalty in a kidnap-murder case despite having reached a plea bargain with the accused. On Sept 24 he authorized a fake plea bargain with Lawrence Whitehurst if he would lead them to the kidnapped girl, who as found dead. Kavanagh says she was killed during the kidnapping, so the plea bargain does not apply. Experts question the constitutionality and ethicality of the ruse and say the confession was involuntary if induced by a false promise.

Ethical aspects, Plea bargaining, New York (State)

---

Looking for death, or just a death jury? Delaware AG's decision triggers debate over prosecutorial discretion

Article Abstract:

The Delaware attorney general's decision to seek the death penalty for two college students accused of killing their newborn infant has spawned a debate on prosecutorial discretion in death penalty cases. Delaware says that a first-degree murder action is mandatory because of statutory aggravating factors such as the alleged murder of a minor younger than 14 by an individual more than four years older. Experts observe that mitigating factors such as postpartum depression should play a part.

Practice, Murder, Delaware

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Making sure Terry Nichols is executed; a mixed verdict by federal jurors turns attention to planned state prosecutions
• Abstracts: Making a case for CaseMap; this software organizes facts for litigators - and you don't have to refold it. Web worries of dot-com lawyers
• Abstracts: Staying away from the dogs; your first decision should be whether to take a case at all. The domino effect; one bad thing leads to another when a case is mishandled
• Abstracts: If the king is dead, then long live ...? Microsoft is a hard act to follow, though some operating systems appear ready
• Abstracts: Clinton has new nemesis; bar prosecutor's case for disbarment has worrisome strength. Lawyers are hot property; demand is high for the eager and techie

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.