Is a life without the possibility of parole a breach of the Eighth Amendment
Is a life without the possibility of parole a breach of the Eighth Amendment? The Eighth Amendment says, “No one shall be subjected to cruel and unusual punishment.” So, what is defined as cruel and unusual punishment? People have their own definition and that could vary depending on one’s emotional state and position. For example, if you have a loved one who was brutally murdered by someone then no punishment would be excessive. It would be fair to say that the victim’s family may say lock them up and throw away the key. My own personal view of cruel and unusual punishment for life without parole sentences is when it is out of proportion to the actions and intent of the individual. The case of Jennifer Ann Mee from Florida is a perfect example. Jennifer is serving a life without parole sentence for first degree murder. Her role in the death of a young man was unintentional. There was no intent to kill whatsoever on her part, but because Jennifer was a participant in ...