CHARLESTON, W.Va. — With neighboring Maryland about to become the sixth state in six years to abolish the death penalty, one West Virginia delegate is on a quixotic quest to resume executions in his state for the first time in a half-century.
This year marks the 27th in a row that Republican Del. John Overington has introduced a bill to reinstate capital punishment. It has rarely progressed far and is unlikely to pass this year, even with the minority GOP steadily making gains in the legislature.
Overington said he supports capital punishment because it leads to a fairer society. He also fears that without it, West Virginia could be inviting murderers to the state. He said his constituents support capital punishment.
If he's unsuccessful, Overington will try for a 28th time next year.
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