Faculty in the News
In the News
Decision may speed up Great Bend murder case
Publication date: Oct. 23, 2011
Source: The Wichita Eagle
Author: Ron Sylvester
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The Wichita Eagle quoted Elizabeth Cateforis, associate professor of law, in a story about the Kansas Attorney General's Office decision not to seek the death penalty in the case of Adam Longoria, who is charged in the sexual assault and death of a 14-year old girl.
The Wichita Eagle wrote:
Death penalty cases cost about a half-million dollars more than those where the defendant does not face execution. That's according to a 2003 state study, which remains the most recent comprehensive information available.
Part of that cost comes from lengthy death penalty proceedings.
"In death penalty cases there are really two trials," said Elizabeth Cateforis, an associate professor who teaches death penalty law at the University of Kansas. "First the jury has to determine whether or not a defendant is guilty. Then there's like another trial to determine whether to impose death."