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Senior Counsel Anthony Astaphan
The recent tragic death of one-year-old Chantel Crump has sparked renewed discussions regarding the death penalty in Antigua and Barbuda.
Senior Counsel Anthony Astaphan told Antigua.news that while the mandatory death sentence was deemed unconstitutional, the Court of Appeal established judicial guidelines that allow for consideration of this severe punishment under specific circumstances.
The shocking nature of young Chantel’s death has prompted a strong public response, with many residents expressing their belief that the woman who confessed to the crime should face the ultimate punishment.
The sentiments surrounding the case have reignited a long-standing debate over the use of capital punishment in the nation.
“I have heard the debate, especially in light of the unfortunate death of young Crump. The mandatory sentence of death, which in years gone by was imposed by every single verdict of death regardless of the circumstances, was declared unconstitutional. But by declaring it unconstitutional, the Court of Appeal…gave judicial guidelines for the consideration by the court when the sentence is being imposed. Therefore, the discretionary sentence of death is still applicable and constitutional if the circumstances surrounding the death are exceptional”, he explained
Astaphan said the sentence of death can be requested by the prosecutors in the high court.
“That much is clear. Once the jury finds a verdict of guilty, they can ask for it” he added.
Going further into details, Astaphan noted a critical aspect of the judicial process, emphasizing, “One cannot be on death row for five years and then seek to execute the death sentence.”
As the community grapples with the implications of this horrifying incident, the conversation surrounding justice, punishment, and the ethical considerations of the death penalty continues to evolve.
The outcome of this case could have significant ramifications for how Antigua and Barbuda addresses serious crimes in the future.
They need to request it. This girl should die. Simple and simple and simple and simple.
But then how is the case gonna be solved? How will Chantel Crumo actually get Justice? It is clear that Angela is taking the rap for this henious crime. She is involved yes but she was not alone. They found her deep a bush. You telling me a 20 year old going deep a bush alone??? What is her reason for killing her? Uh?
Life. For. Life! Simple! We don’t want to pay no taxes to benefit her living
Shake her now until she gives up the names of all involved then execute all of them.
There must be situations where the death penalty can be applied..this is one such time
This circumstance warrants consideration for the death penalty and I’m hoping it is requested because this was just inhumane