In his proposal, Rep. Paul Sherrell, R-Sparta argues that the death penalty should be brought back in Tennessee and that offenders should be hanged by tree. He states that this method is more humane than lethal injection and would also serve as a deterrent to crime.
Rep. Paul Sherrell goes on to say that many people are against the death penalty because they believe it is cruel and unusual punishment. However, he argues that it is not cruel or unusual if it is the only way to prevent someone from committing more crimes. He also points out that offenders would have a chance to appeal their sentence if they feel they were wrongly convicted.
As much as we’d like to believe that progress and societal evolution are constant, there always seems to be a few individuals determined to drag us back into the dark ages. Case in point: A Tennessee lawmaker recently proposed the revival of a brutal form of execution – hanging by tree. Yes, you read that right – this archaic practice hasn’t been used since 1939, but apparently one politician thinks it’s time for a comeback.
In Tennessee, the criminal justice system is overseen by the state government. The system is made up of various agencies and departments that work together to ensure public safety and order. These agencies include the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Corrections, and the Department of Safety. The criminal justice system in Tennessee is responsible for investigating crime, prosecuting offenders, and providing support to victims and witnesses.
In the early days of American history, hanging was the most common form of execution. It was often used as a punishment for crimes such as murder, robbery, and rape. Over time, however, public opinion began to change and hanging became less popular. In the 20th century, hanging was replaced by more humane methods of execution such as lethal injection and electric chair. Today, there are only a handful of countries where hanging is still used as a method of execution. However, there are some who believe that it is still an effective form of punishment.
When news broke that Tennessee lawmaker Rep. Paul Sherrell proposed bringing back “hanging by tree” as a form of execution, the internet was quick to voice its opinion.
Many were outraged at the suggestion, calling it barbaric and inhumane. Some pointed out that such a method of execution would be unconstitutional, as it violates the Eighth Amendment’s ban on cruel and unusual punishment.
Others saw it as a practical solution to what they see as a problem with the current death penalty system. They argue that hanging is a more efficient and cost-effective way to carry out executions, and that it would deter crime more effectively than the current system.
Whatever people’s opinions may be, it’s clear that Rep. Sherrell’s proposal has stirred up strong emotions on both sides of the debate.
One alternative is life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. This would ensure that the person convicted of a crime would never be released from prison, providing justice for the victim’s family.
Another alternative is rehabilitation. This would provide the person with an opportunity to learn from their mistakes and grow as a person. It could also provide them with an opportunity to reenter society and contribute to their community in a positive way.
