By: Samantha Lavien
Slavien@abc6.com
Twitter: @SLavienABC6
Less than a week before the penalty phase for Convicted Marathon bomber Dzhokhar Tsarnaev is set to begin, the family of the youngest victim is voicing their opinions about the death penalty.
In an Op Ed piece for the Boston Globe titled: To End the Anguish, Drop the Death Penalty; Bill and Denise Richard explain why they want to take the option off the table.
They write, "We know the government has its reasons for seeking the death penalty, but the continued pursuit of that punishment could bring years of appeals and prolong reliving the most painful day of our lives."
8–year–old Martin Richard was killed in the twin blasts two years ago, his 7–year–old sister maimed.
Bill and Denise say they want to see Tsarnaev sentenced to life in prison waiving all rights to appeal and not having any possibility of release.
"I certainly support the Richard family. They are friends and I can't imagine how hard it is for them, what they're going through with the trial,” said Boston Mayor Marty Walsh.
"I think their points of view and their perspectives absolutely should be taken into account by the jury and by the feds,” said Governor Charlie Baker.
US Attorney Carmen Ortiz released the following statement following the Richard's letter.
"I have spoken with Bill and Denise Richard many times since the beginning of the case and I am aware of their views. My relationship with them, and with all of the victims and survivors, is very important to me.
Over the past two years, I have heard from scores of survivors and victims about their feelings regarding this case. Many have strong views about the best way to proceed.
Those views have been heard and have played a role -- and continue to play a role -- in the Department of Justice's handling of this case. The attorneys in a criminal case are legally bound to keep many matters relating to the case confidential, even from the people most affected by the crimes.
I therefore cannot comment on the specifics of the statement. But as I have previously assured both Bill and Denise, I care deeply about their views and the views of the other victims and survivors. As the case moves forward we will continue to do all we can to protect and vindicate those injured and those who have passed away."
(C) WLNE 2015
Source: Top Stories - Google News - http://ift.tt/1PZ42CD
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