Examining the Sentence of Life without Parole in Kentucky Homicide Cases. (21st May 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Vito, Anthony G.; Vito, Gennaro F.; Higgins, George E.
• Is Part Of: Justice evaluation journal. Volume 4:Number 1(2021)
• Page Start: 98
• Page End: 111
• Publication Date: 2021-05-21
• Subjects: Life without parole -- sentencing; Criminal justice, Administration of -- Periodicals; 353.4
• DOI: 10.1080/24751979.2020.1790303
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2475-1979

Abstract

Abstract: This study examines the issue of prosecutorial discretion and the decision to offer a plea of life without parole (LWOP) in Kentucky death-eligible homicide cases (2000–2016). Using focal concerns theory as a framework and propensity score matching (PSM) and logistic regression as the methods of analysis, it attempts to explain the factors influencing prosecutorial discretion in the decision to grant a plea for LWOP with an emphasis on the role of race and gender or the victim and offender in this process. Among similarly situated cases, black offenders convicted of killing a white victim and those cases featuring a female victim were significantly more likely to receive a sentence of life without parole. Within the context of LWOP sentencing, the blameworthiness of a case was more significant than factors measuring the protection of the community.