News and Developments 2003: Victims

Gray Rules Guillory May Ask for Mercy

Posted: May 12, 2003
in
American Press.com

May 9, 2003
Friday
By VINCENT LUPO

The mother of a 6-year-old Iowa boy murdered 11 years ago will be allowed to ask jurors for mercy for the man who allegedly molested and killed her child, Judge Al Gray ruled Thursday.

Citing a 1998 state constitutional amendment approved by voters, Gray said Lorilei Guillory will be allowed "to testify and ask for mercy if she wishes" during any penalty phase of Ricky Langley's first-degree murder re-trial, if a penalty phase is needed.

Legal Issues: States That Allow Victim Impact Statements

Posted: March 19, 2003
in
Undecided
Limited Admissibility
Admissible
Montana Indiana Alabama  

Victim Resources

Posted: March 19, 2003
in

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Studies and Reports

Victims and the Death Penalty

Posted: March 19, 2003
in

INTRODUCTION

Vindication for victims and closure for victims' families are often held out as primary reasons for supporting the death penalty.  However, many people in this community believe that another killing would not bring closure and that the death penalty is a disservice to victims.