Justice for Murderers
Gov. Quinn Strikes Down Death Penalty
When he abolished the death penalty, Gov. Quinn not only decided to act as judge and jury but he single-handedly handed life to many who took the life of others.
Is this fair? From a gut reaction, no.
I know the justice system is flawed, but erasing the death penalty entirely is not the way to go.
Now, enter where I live in Whiteside County and where I grew up, Dekalb county. The first being Nicolas Sheley and the second involves William Curl. Two cases are proceeding and I would like to think that the death penalty could still be an option. Nope. Not any more.
As an on air host for AM 1240 WSDR in Sterling, Illinois, I was broadcasting when Sheley was on a killing spree. I am reminded of the terror and fear he brought to this area, and others throughout Illinois and Missouri. He was on the loose and no one, including law enforcement could track him down. The rumors, reports and failed efforts, made this area go on lockdown and fear something we should not have to endure. In a small town, not only did they wonder about what would happen next, but many knew those who lost their lives. In a sad twist, many are related and knew and know Sheley as well. It was not an easy thing to cover.
Sheley weaved his way into the annals' of history by allegedly killing eight people before finally surrendering. He is now in a Knox County jail awaiting trial. And now, no matter what, in Illinois, he will not face death.
Meanwhile, around Halloween in De Kalb (home of NIU) a college student goes for a walk and never comes home. Days later William Curl is arrested in connection with her death.
If Curl and Sheley are both convicted for their crimes, each can now sit comfortably in jail knowing that, no matter what happens, they will not die for the actions and the horror they caused.
"We need to have punishment that is never-ending," Quinn said. With this decision, he will make the pain for friends and family of the victims never-ending as well.
There were 15 inmates on death row in Illinois. No more, they now will serve life without parole.
Oh, there is some hope for those victims of Sheley. Missouri still has the death penalty. He is accused of killing a couple there during his
reign of terror.
Published by Tim O'Brien
I have been working in the media for more than 20 years. My field of expertise is entertainment, but I also dabble in special interests such as trivia, history and humor. View profile
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