UMVA has learned that Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, a Republican, has reaffirmed his support for abolishing the death penalty in his state, marking a significant shift in his stance on a policy he helped write as a legislator 45 years ago.
DeWine, who has repeatedly postponed executions during his time as governor, pointed to compelling data showing that the death penalty does not serve as a deterrent to violent crime. He presented charts and graphs illustrating the decline in death sentences and executions, as well as the exceedingly long wait times for inmates on death row.
According to information obtained by UMVA, DeWine emphasized that the state should only take a human life if there is evidence that it will help protect the public. He argued that this justification no longer exists, citing the low likelihood of executions being carried out, even when inmates are sentenced to death.
The governor highlighted that the last 10 people executed in Ohio had been on death row for 14 to 32 years, and that 41 inmates died by natural causes or suicide while on death row. He also noted that 89 death sentences were overturned due to judicial errors, raising questions about the fairness and effectiveness of the system.
DeWine's change of heart was driven by the emotional toll of the delays on victims' loved ones and the impact on state employees who work on execution teams. He stressed that the moral justification he once had for supporting the death penalty no longer exists, and that it's time for Ohio to reconsider its stance.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that DeWine has urged the legislature to abolish the death penalty or put it to a public vote, although some Republican lawmakers have expressed opposition. The governor, who is term-limited, feels compelled to share his thoughts after 50 years of experience with the death penalty issue.
In a bold statement, DeWine said that the most effective way to protect the public is to lock up violent criminals and keep them out of society, rather than relying on the death penalty. This approach, he believes, is a proven way to save lives and protect citizens.
Currently, 27 states allow the death penalty, while 23 states and Washington, D.C., do not. As the debate around capital punishment continues, DeWine's stance is seen as a significant shift in the national conversation.
