Lawmaker wants N.J. to revive capital punishment

A New Jersey lawmaker has introduced legislation to bring back the death penalty in the Garden State.

Following the fatal shooting of a Lakewood police officer this month, Sen. Robert Singer said his bill would restore capital punishment in certain cases. He said it would apply to anyone who murders a child, kills a police officer, or commits a terrorist attack that results in death.

“Across the country, since the first of the year, 10 police officers have been murdered. I think we have to send a strong signal in New Jersey that we don’t tolerate it here and that there is the ultimate price you will pay for doing so,” said Singer Wednesday.

“And this is not just to murderers as such; it’s also to gang members to say, ‘Look, if you’re going to attack our police officers, we’re coming back at you.’ “

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New Jersey abolished the death penalty in 2007 and replaced it with life without parole. Sen. Ray Lesniak, who said capital punishment is not necessary, said he sees no reason why the Legislature should consider restoring it.

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