Why are individuals with intellectual disabilities not allowed to be sentenced to death?
A. they are not over the age of 18, so they cannot understand the severity of their crimes
B. individuals with intellectual disabilities are only allowed to be sentenced to death for homicide.
C. It is considered cruel and unusual because by the nature of their diagnosis, these individuals have lessened ability to understand the severity of their crimes.
D. Roper V. Simmons found this sentencing unconstitutional
C. It is considered cruel and unusual because by the nature of their diagnosis, these individuals have lessened ability to understand the severity of their crimes.
D. Roper V. Simmons found this sentencing unconstitutional.
The correct answer is C. It is considered cruel and unusual because by the nature of their diagnosis, individuals with intellectual disabilities have a lessened ability to understand the severity of their crimes.
To arrive at this answer, we need to understand the legal and ethical considerations regarding individuals with intellectual disabilities and the death penalty. Specifically, we need to look at how intellectual disability affects a person's understanding and culpability.
First, let's examine option A. It states that individuals with intellectual disabilities are not allowed to be sentenced to death because they are not over the age of 18 and cannot understand the severity of their crimes. While age can be a determining factor for certain legal consequences, such as being a minor and not facing the death penalty, it is not the main reason why individuals with intellectual disabilities are not sentenced to death. Moreover, some jurisdictions do allow the death penalty for offenders under 18.
Next, let's consider option B. It suggests that individuals with intellectual disabilities can only be sentenced to death for homicide. While the specific crimes for which the death penalty can be applied may differ across jurisdictions, this is not the primary reason why individuals with intellectual disabilities are exempt from the death penalty.
Moving on to option C, it provides the most accurate explanation. It states that it is considered cruel and unusual to sentence individuals with intellectual disabilities to death because, due to their disability, they have a diminished ability to understand the severity of their actions. This reasoning is based on the notion that punishment should be proportionate and aimed at rehabilitation, deterrence, or societal protection. Sentencing individuals with intellectual disabilities to death may be seen as disproportionate or ineffective due to their reduced capacity for comprehension.
Finally, option D refers to the Supreme Court case Roper v. Simmons. While this case did rule against sentencing minors to death, it does not specifically address individuals with intellectual disabilities. Therefore, this option is not directly relevant to the question.
To summarize, individuals with intellectual disabilities are not allowed to be sentenced to death primarily because it is considered cruel and unusual punishment due to the inherent challenges they face in understanding the gravity of their crimes.