Local News

Senator Wants Death Penalty 3/2/06

Jenn Rourke

MADISON - The chilling details of the Steven Avery case may lead to a new push for the death penalty in Wisconsin.

TODAY'S TMJ4 has learned a state Senate committee will take up the death penalty issue on Monday. It has nothing to do with Stephen Avery - but everything to do with people who are convicted of vicious murders.

Many people in the city have heard the new horrific details in the Teresa Halbach murder, and they have an opinion on what should happen to Stephen Avery, if, he is found guilty.

"I don't believe in the death penalty," said Gail Anklam. "No eye for an eye."

Nicole Vohlkel supports death penalty. "I do think Wisconsin does need the death penalty and voters should be able to vote that in if they want it."

Death penalty advocate Alan Lasee agrees. The Republican senator represents Halbach's district. He said it's time for a statewide referendum on the death penalty.

"Personally I feel very strongly about having the death penalty as an option in our courts," Lasee said.

If the advisory referendum makes it through committee, the earliest voters would get a chance to weigh in would be this September.

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