Can Child Rapists Be Executed?

Okay, so a news story has sparked my need to blog. CNN reported on the Supreme Court's latest ruling on whether or not child rapists can be executed. In a 5-4 ruling, the Supreme Court has said that child rapists can not be executed because using the death penalty for any crime other than murder is cruel and unusual punishment, which is prohibited by the Eighth Amendment.

The USSC made the right decision. A rapist should not be punished using the death penalty. We live with a system that says the punishment should fit the crime. If rapists, even child rapists, can receive the death penalty then our system is equating rape to murder. Rape, especially the rape of a child, is one the most evil crimes a person can commit. However, I do not believe it is the most evil. Murder is the worst crime a person can commit and therefore, should carry the worst punishment.

In the article sex crimes prosecutor, Kat Bartholomew says, "In my opinion, the rape of a child is more heinous and more hideous than a homicide." Tell that to someone who's child has been murdered.