A Jewish congregation at the Tree of Life synagogue where Robert Bowers is accused of killing 11 worshippers in 2018 is asking U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland to spare the suspected gunman the death penalty on religious grounds (article available here).
"The Congregation respectfully requests that the government abandon its quest for the death penalty in the case against the person responsible for the October 27 attack," wrote Bruce Herschlag, president of the Dor Hadash board. He added, federal prosecutors and agents have "stood by our sides and supported us from Day 1" but the congregation wants to see justice meted out in a "manner that is both consistent with our religious values and that spares us from the painful ordeal of prolonged legal maneuvering leading to a lengthy trial and years of unpredictable appeals."
"In Jewish tradition, courts imposing capital sentences have been viewed as bloodthirsty since the days of the sages." Multiple life sentences, representing each of the 11 people Mr. Bowers is accused of killing, will ensure that he never gets out of prison. "This is the outcome we desire."
Last week, Attorney General Merrick Garland announced he is reviewing the Justice Department's federal death penalty policies and he expects to issue a statement when his review is complete.