Hatcher thankful for the defeat of bill legalizing execution by firing squad

On Tuesday, Jan. 27, House Bill 1119 failed to pass with a constitutional majority with a vote of 48 to 47. The bill was not called down again before the third reading deadline, defeating the legislation.  If passed, HB 1119 would have legalized the use of firing squads to carry out the death penalty. 

State Rep. Ragen Hatcher (D-Gary) issued the following statement: 

“As a former prosecutor, I’m thankful this bill failed. It has no place in our justice system, which is centered on a mutual respect for human life. Our justice system isn’t about retribution. 

“The death penalty is a flawed, irrevocable practice. Race, socioeconomic class and the skill of an attorney all play a role in every conviction. Our justice system isn’t perfect. The system isn’t immune to bias or mistakes, and once a life is taken it can’t be returned. Hundreds of individuals sentenced to death have exonerated with additional DNA testing or with new evidence.

“This bill would expedite executions, and that’s not what we need. Indiana corrections should be about justice and rehabilitation, not about finding the cheapest, most efficient, most painful way for the state to kill someone. 

“Indiana’s goal should always be fairness and respect in our treatment of every person. There is nothing fair or respectful about a painful death at the hands of a firing squad.”