On the other hand, I oppose capital punishment on policy grounds, not merely because I believe the system is not infallible but also because the deterrent effect is questionable. We are going to have cases from time to time such as Westley Alan Dodd, who effectively used the judicial system in Washington to commit suicide.

And while Van's case may not be one in which the guilt of the defendant is in doubt, what about Flor Cantinflas? That's the case that, in my opinion, really calls into question the need for a mandatory death sentence in Singapore for any offense.