In the United States, 1,099 convicted murderers have been executed since 1976. Another 3,263 are on death row; Shockingly, 65% of those on death row had already been convicted of a felony at the time of the murder. Thirty-seven states have authorized the death penalty (The Death Penalty in the US). Lethal injection, firing squad and the electric chair are the preferred methods. The death penalty has been a very controversial subject since its reinstatement in 1976 (Lethal injections: cruel and unusual punishment?). Controversy revolves around the 8th Amendment to the Bill of Rights “Unusual and Cruel Punishment…(United States Constitution, Bill of Rights)” but is it really cruel? Compared to the guillotine used by the French. How far are we willing to go to protect murderers and rapists? To ensure they receive a “just and humane” punishment. Many Americans believe the death penalty is “unconstitutional.” In fact, about 23% of Americans do not support capital punishment (Who Supports the Death Penalty?). Depending on the severity of the murder, convicted murderers can be sentenced to the death penalty or life in prison without the possibility of parole. Other crimes could carry lesser sentences ranging from 5 years to life; it all depends on the judge. Conditional release may be granted if the criminal demonstrates good behavior. A well-known case in the state of California claims that Lily Burk is a sophomore; she was killed by a parolee at the age of seventeen. In 2009, Charlie Samuel, 50, on parole, was charged with robbery, kidnapping and murder (paroled to stand trial in the murder of Lily Burk). The death penalty brings closure to the victims’ families. Countless families witnessed the execution of the murdered convicts. The feeling of relief is p...... middle of paper ......ary: The murders of Channon Christian and Chris Newsom (Video). July 21, 2011.Lethal injections: cruel and unusual punishment? July 19, 2011. Parolee will be tried in the murder of Lily Burk. July 21, 2011. Prison Facts. July 22, 2011. The death penalty in the United States. July 19, 2011. U.S. Constitution Bill of Rights. July 19, 2011. Who supports the death penalty? 21 07 2011 .