Judge Imposes Life Sentence for Victims’ Sake

Baltimore County Judge Dana M. Levitz recently sentenced a man convicted of murder to two life terms without parole, in part because of its possible effects on the victims’ families. Levitz said, “The devastating effect that this unending litigation has on the innocent families of the victims is incalculable. By imposing a death sentence, I ensure that the victim’s families will be subjected to many more years of appeals.” Family members also noted that the decision gave them the peace of mind they have been searching for. A sister of the victim noted, “I’m pleased with the sentence because I think I might get some closure from this. I didn’t want him out on the street anymore, but killing him wasn’t the answer either.” (Baltimore Sun, July 26, 2003). See Victims and Life Without Parole.