In this Texas case, the murder victim’s family did not want the death penalty and so the prosecutor did not seek it.
An East Texas man has plead guilty to capital murder and will spend the rest of his life in jail.
Back in March, 34 year old Joe Don Turner killed an 86 year old man who refused to give him money.
The state intended to seek the death penalty against Turner, but after consulting with the victim’s widow, they agreed to a life sentence as part of a plea deal.
From the Longview News-Journal:
Snitker’s wife of 26 years Helen Snitker stood in court and said she forgave Turner for his crime, and hopes that his gift of continued life will give him time to reflect upon his actions, according to court reports. Court reports also stated Turner expressed remorse for killing Snitker, throughout the investigation.