The death penalty doesn't work, never has, never will unless you make it public. So forget that routine now. However, hard labor, though no proof recidivism is lowered, is the closest to equitable repayment to society has long been thought of as harsh. Well, I'm sorry Mr. tree hugging, polar bear saving attorney, since when do we forget about the victim's loss in these cases. I say we attach a dollar value to the crime, an hourly rate for a given job to repay that debt upon society (that way there are choices given to the convict) and have them work it off. If the convict chooses to take an easier job, so be it. If they choose to take a really shyte job that pays better, SO BE IT!! This way, when convict daddy or convict mommy gets out, they can truly say they repaid their debt to society and it mean something of an example to their child. I have but one exception to this rule. If you harm a child, YOU DIE! I have no patience for people willing to mess with a child.