Why are individuals with intellectual disabilities not allowed to be sentenced to death? (1 point)
Roper v. Simmons found this sentencing to be unconstitutional.
Individuals with intellectual disabilities are only allowed to be sentenced to death for homicide.
They are not over the age of 18, so they cannot understand the severity of their crimes.
It is considered cruel and unusual, because by the nature of their diagnosis, these
individuals have a lessened ability to understand the severity of their crimes.
It is considered unethical to execute individuals with intellectual disabilities due to their diminished capacity to understand their actions and the consequences of their crimes. This is seen as a violation of the Eighth Amendment, which prohibits cruel and unusual punishment.
The main reason why individuals with intellectual disabilities are not allowed to be sentenced to death is because it is considered unconstitutional, as stated in the Supreme Court case Roper v. Simmons. This ruling determined that it is cruel and unusual punishment to execute individuals with intellectual disabilities. The decision is based on the understanding that individuals with intellectual disabilities have a reduced capacity to understand the severity of their crimes. Additionally, it is worth noting that individuals with intellectual disabilities can still be sentenced to life in prison for committing homicide, but the death penalty is not applicable in their cases.
To understand why individuals with intellectual disabilities are not allowed to be sentenced to death, it is important to look at the legal and ethical considerations involved. One key factor is the Supreme Court case Roper v. Simmons, which found this sentencing to be unconstitutional.
The court recognized that individuals with intellectual disabilities have diminished cognitive abilities, which affect their understanding of the criminal justice system, the severity of their crimes, and their ability to contribute meaningfully to their own defense. The decision in Roper v. Simmons determined that imposing the death penalty on individuals with intellectual disabilities violates the Eighth Amendment's prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment.
It is also worth noting that individuals with intellectual disabilities are only allowed to be sentenced to death for homicide. Other crimes may still carry severe penalties, but the death penalty is reserved for the most serious offenses.
Furthermore, individuals with intellectual disabilities generally have a reduced capacity to fully understand the consequences and implications of their actions. This diminished understanding is due to the nature of their diagnosis, which affects cognitive functioning, reasoning, and judgment. As a result, it is considered cruel and unusual to subject individuals with intellectual disabilities to the death penalty, as they may not fully comprehend the gravity of their actions.
Overall, the decision to prohibit the death penalty for individuals with intellectual disabilities is based on legal principles, ethical considerations, and a recognition of the unique challenges they face in understanding and participating in the criminal justice system.