LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraskans whose relatives were murdered are calling on lawmakers to abolish the death penalty, saying it prolongs the suffering of victims' families and wastes tax dollars on endless appeals.
Relatives rallied at the Capitol on Wednesday came in advance of a legislative hearing on a bill to end capital punishment.
Miriam Thimm Kelle, whose brother James Thimm was murdered by Michael Ryan at a farm near Rulo in 1985, says the death penalty has distracted from the needs of victims' families.
The repeal bill was introduced by longtime Sen. Ernie Chambers of Omaha, who has fought for nearly four decades to end capital punishment.
Of the 33 Nebraska inmates sentenced to death since 1973, three have been executed.
© Associated Press
MOST VIEWED STORIES
Atchison Walmart robbery sparks suspect search
Accused Atchison Walmart robber arrested Wed
Brown Co man involved in fatal central KS crash
Wrecked motorcyclist escapes serious injuries
Decision made on future of Atchison Co Lake
Rape among charges holding Holton man
Atchison's black business past set for renewal
Two arrested after Jackson Co traffic stop
Atchison woman injured in Shawnee Co crash
Suspect arrested in Jackson Co vehicle theft
Familiar name in local radio being remembered
Nemaha Co Attorney discusses retirement plans with commission
Jackson Co voters to face special question in November
Flags to fly in honor of fallen KS paramedic
HCC successfully concludes DOJ settlement agreement
Lancaster Fire gains firetruck
Falls City Council moves forward with bonding for future electrical needs
New 3-county extension district formation explored
LATEST STORIES
Presidential Disaster Declaration approved
Atchison woman injured in Shawnee Co crash
Public health advisory issued for Pony Creek Lake
Rape among charges holding Holton man
Memorial Day honors planned for Atchison Co vets
Local tribes awarded housing grants
Suspect arrested in Jackson Co vehicle theft
Familiar name in local radio being remembered