Death row inmates shouldn’t be fed so much

Much has been written, discussed and argued concerning the recent executions in the state of Arkansas. Most are centered around religious or political points of view. I would like to broach another perspective.

On April 24, the state of Arkansas put to death Marcel Williams and Jack Jones by lethal injection. Both men were convicted murderers and rapists. The two were also morbidly obese and diabetic men (one of whom having a leg amputated while in prison) making the IV a more difficult-than-normal task to perform. Defense lawyers argued the possibility the IV line’s placement and ability to adequately deliver the drugs to incapacitate and terminate their life questionable, thereby opening the window for a higher level of pain and suffering. Their request to block the execution failed.

Regardless of your stance on the death penalty, one question should be asked. Why are we allowing inmates (on death row or not) to be fed so much that they tip the scales at such massive numbers? Marcel Williams weighed in excess of 400 pounds! Not only is this a waste of taxpayer money, it is possible the excess food consumed (or proceeds to buy it) could otherwise feed homeless and disadvantaged citizens whose only crime committed is that of want and need.

I’m not advocating starvation techniques for those incarcerated, but moderation and proper management might be in order.

BRAD WELCH

Fayetteville