It’s time to end the death penalty

Dear Editor,

It has been 17 years since the federal government has orchestrated executions. This year the Trump administration has ordered 10 people from the federal death row be put to death. When we look at the cases, we see patterns. We see broken people that were hurt by the system and that were hurt by others.

The most recent execution, Alfred Bourgeois, was abused by his mother growing up — to such an extent that he had to go seek refuge with a neighbor. Lisa Montgomery, whose execution is scheduled for January, was also regularly abused. Both cases are questionable because of psychiatric evaluations that should disqualify them from execution.

Mr. Bourgeois’s IQ was listed at 70, which is described as the “mildly defective range.” Lisa Montgomery has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and MRI scans have shown that she has suffered brain damage. In addition, she may have fetal alcohol syndrome.

On Dec. 10, Brandon Bernard was executed. The crime that Brandon allegedly committed was one that many, especially those with white skin, would be walking free for. Brandon was described as the “getaway driver” and was not actually present at the scene of the murder. He was barely 18 at the time. The unjust execution 20 years after the incident highlights the prevalent racism that needs to be dismantled in the justice system and the nation at large.

These three cases are reflective of the flaws of the death penalty: Executing the abused, executing those who suffer from mental illness, and perpetuating an already racist judicial system.

The government, the courts, and even we are not moral champions worthy of choosing who gets to live and who gets to die. The death penalty needs to be ended.

Ellie Perez Kerhonkson, N.Y.