Making a case for an execution moratorium

Re “Panel Calls for Moratorium on Executions,” Jan. 9

The moratorium intended to review whether innocent people are condemned to death is indeed a noble and humane goal, in that most civilized people would be appalled if a person proved to be innocent were executed. However, some conservatives quoted in the article seem opposed to the moral issue underlying the proposed moratorium. It is likely that the moratorium would upset victims’ families. But how would they feel if an innocent person is executed and the real killer is still free? Unfortunately it is only a matter of time until the execution of a person later proved innocent. I can’t understand how some conservatives define the word “innocent.” If we protect the innocent unborn or vegetative, why isn’t the innocence of a wrongly condemned adult just as precious?

CANDICE UHLIR

Three Rivers, Calif.