Myths and Facts

1. Myth: The death penalty deters crime.
   Fact: Decades of research show no evidence that capital punishment deters crime more effectively than life imprisonment.

2. Myth: Only guilty people are executed.
   Fact: Since 1973, over 190 people have been exonerated from death row in the U.S., proving wrongful convictions are real and deadly.

3. Myth: The death penalty is cheaper than life imprisonment.
   Fact: Death penalty cases cost millions more due to longer trials, appeals, and specialized incarceration needs.

4. Myth: Executions bring closure to victims’ families.
   Fact: Many families report that the long appeals process prolongs their trauma; many prefer alternatives that avoid years of legal battles.

5. Myth: The death penalty is applied fairly.
   Fact: Race, geography, and quality of legal representation heavily influence who receives a death sentence.

6. Myth: Modern execution methods are humane.
   Fact: Numerous botched executions have caused excruciating pain, and no method guarantees a painless death.

7. Myth: The death penalty is necessary for the worst crimes.
   Fact: Life without parole keeps society safe while respecting human dignity and avoiding irreversible errors.

8. Myth: Most countries use the death penalty.
   Fact: Over two-thirds of countries worldwide have abolished the death penalty in law or practice.

9. Myth: The death penalty saves money by reducing prison overcrowding.
   Fact: Death penalty cases are far more expensive than non-capital cases and do not significantly impact prison populations.

10. Myth: Prosecutors and police always seek justice in capital cases.
    Fact: Studies show misconduct and bias, including withholding evidence, have contributed to wrongful death sentences.

11. Myth: The death penalty protects society from dangerous criminals.
    Fact: Life without parole effectively protects society without the moral and financial costs of executions.

12. Myth: Americans overwhelmingly support the death penalty.
    Fact: Support has declined steadily for decades, with polls showing near-even splits and growing calls for abolition.