May 27: Douglas A. Davidson statement to Permanent Council
In the United States, 38 states "make provision for application of the death penalty, in certain cases and with meticulous due process, based upon legislation passed by the duly elected governments of those states. These laws reflect the will of the people, as is appropriate in a democracy," Davidson said. (complete text)
Case of two women murdered in 1996 in Shenandoah National Park
The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced February 6 that it is withdrawing its intention to seek the death penalty in the case of Darrell David Rice, who was indicted for killing two women in Shenandoah National Park in Virginia in 1996.
DOJ Director of Public Affairs Mark Corallo said a continuing investigation has yielded evidence that makes prosecution of the matter as a capital murder case "inappropriate at this time." He cited the department's commitment to "the highest standards of justice" as well as "prudence, fairness and an abundance of caution" in making the decision.
This site is produced and maintained by the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of International Information Programs.
Links to other internet sites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views contained therein.