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Reading the article (Daily Bee, Oct. 6) regarding Jacob Corban Coleman, alleged murderer of Mr. Singh, defense attorney stated the death penalty would be cruel and unusual punishment for Mr. Coleman. What about the cruel and unusual method of Mr. Singh’s murder?

The victim can’t say anything because he’s dead. It has been stated, in previous reports, that Coleman sat in the vehicle, after stabbing Mr. Singh multiple times, and watched Singh bleed out. Is there anyone out there that doesn’t think bleeding to death, while your alleged murderer watches you die isn’t cruel and unusual punishment? Quite frankly, the punishment should fit the crime.

The defense attorney’s argument that Coleman “was only 19,” and therefore shouldn’t be put to death or life in prison without parole, is a crock. Draft registration age is 18. Legal responsibility and held accountable for one’s actions is age 18. Serving in the military, without adult signing off for that person’s entry, is age 18.

All this stuff about the “accused’s rights,” doesn’t take into account what the victim’s rights are/should have been before his life was taken from him for simply performing his job as a taxi driver. Defense attorney R. Keith Roark, you don’t think Coleman will do it again if he’s not held permanently accountable for his crime? If you don’t think this alleged murderer won’t repeat offend once released, I’ve got a bridge you can buy.

MICHAEL HARMELIN

Sandpoint