Statement from the Catholic Conference of Ohio:
Brian Hickey, executive director of the Catholic Conference of Ohio, issued a statement in response to Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine’s comments on the death penalty, stating, “Governor DeWine is correct that Ohio should not kill human beings, given the flawed system of execution. Ohioans are increasingly recognizing that the death penalty perpetuates a cycle of violence, deprives offenders of rehabilitation, and increases costs to the state.” He continued, “Several of Ohio’s death row inmates have found redemption through the Catholic faith. They have repented of their egregious crimes and seek to live as witnesses to a better way of life through prayer, penance, and service to other inmates. In a state and country in which alternatives to execution exist, we should support punishments that are in greater conformity with the dignity of the human person, made in the image and likeness of God.” The statement concludes with, “We join Governor DeWine in urging Ohio legislators to pass House Bill 72 and Senate Bill 134 to prohibit the State of Ohio from funding the intentional termination of human life––including abortion, assisted suicide, and State-sanctioned execution––and to abolish the death penalty in favor of life without parole.”