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Bible Spares Convict From Death Row

This sentence was overturned because juries are not allowed to consider outside sources when deciding cases. In Colorado in the past, according to the article, cases have been overturned because jurors used the dictionary or internet for reference.

Although I am a religious person, I agree that what the jury did was improper. I think this is a situation where consulting the bible was wrong. When deciding if someone should be put to death, it is the law of that region that must be consulted not one's personal beliefs, religious or otherwise.

Edited: funbikerchick on 31st Mar, 2005 - 10:50am

Row Death Convict Spares Bible

Exactly, I am surprised that the jurors did not know this or they just ignored it. I cannot imagine them bringing their Bibles in court! *shaking head*, I could understand it if it was a disciplinary action within a religious body but not within a court of law. This guy needs a new trial and he needs to be condemn for what he has done.

Bible Spares Convict From Death Row History & Civil Business Politics

I wouldn't say he needs a new trial. The inappropriate behavior was during the sentencing phase.

Row Death Convict Spares Bible

He does need a new trial because it was obvious that he was condemn using the Bible as a source and jurors are not supposed to use any external sources to evaluate the crime committed. They used it again to explain their sentence.

Row Death Convict Spares Bible

I have to agree with the ruling and shame on the jurors for jeopardizing the sentencing by their actions. No one told them not to use the Bible and its words as their own personal references, but it was improper for them to use it openly as they did. The separation of church and state is very evident here, and because these jurors chose to ignore that, they let a convicted killer evade the death penalty.