This is Robert Scirocco bringing you today’s law bit. 

Last January, a commission appointed by the governor came out with the recommendation that the death penalty on the books since 1982 be abolished. 

Among the reasons given for this recommendation is that no definitive proof exists that the death penalty is a deterrent to crime.   The panel also recognized the increased cost involved in keeping individuals on death row with all the inevitable legal challenges involved. 

Indeed it looks like a sure thing that lawmakers in Trenton are ready to take up the recommendation and do away with the death penalty in this state altogether. 

Ironically, since the law went into effect allowing for executions 26 years ago, not one individual has been put to death.  In fact, the last execution in the state took place in 1963.   

Many families of victims of murders now also advocate doing away with the death penalty – not because it doesn’t work, but because they know it will never be used.

 This is Robert Scirocco, attorney at law, Budd Lake, New Jersey bringing you today’s law bit.