This alert has expired (the bill died or the session ended)
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North Carolina continues to execute mentally ill people despite public opposition to the practice. Last year alone, the state executed six people with some form of mental illness. And next week the practice is likely to continue with the scheduled execution of George Page, a Vietnam veteran who killed a police officer during a manic flashback episode in which he believed he was under enemy fire.
Despite strong evidence of mental illness, the defense was not allowed to present testimony on Page's post traumatic stress disorder and overall mental health. Had the jury heard this evidence, they might have spared his life and instead sentenced him to a life term without a chance of parole.
The North Carolina Senate voted last year to impose a moratorium on executions in the state pending a thorough study of its system to ensure its fairness. The House will consider the question again this year. This is a clear indication that many North Carolinians have serious concerns about the fairness and legitimacy of the death penalty in their state.
Take Action! Urge Governor Easley to spare the life of a mentally ill man who served his country with distinction.
The death penalty is supposed to be reserved for the most culpable offenders.
The facts of this case do not warrant a punishment of death. George Page killed a police officer in the course of a flashback manic episode from his time in Vietnam during which he believed he was being attacked by enemy fire. His crime is a terrible tragedy, but he does not deserve a death sentence.
The jury did not hear important evidence of George Page's post-traumatic stress disorder.
Page's trial attorneys were not allowed to adequately present the evidence of his mental illness and post-traumatic stress disorder. Had the jury heard this evidence, they might have spared his life and instead sentenced him to a life term without a chance of parole.
Executions should be halted pending the outcome of moratorium legislation.
Last year, the North Carolina Senate voted in favor of a moratorium bill, which the House will consider this year. One reason for the moratorium is the fact that North Carolina frequently executes mentally ill people. Last year alone, it executed six mentally ill offenders. The pending moratorium legislation is an indication that many North Carolinians have serious concerns about the fairness and legitimacy of the death penalty in their state. Page's case illustrates the need for reform.