Catholic Bishops Issue a Statement Opposing the Execution of Carey Dean Moore

LINCOLN, NE - The Catholic Bishops serving in Nebraska, Archbishop George J. Lucas of Omaha, Bishop James D. Conley of Lincoln, and Bishop Joseph G. Hanefeldt of Grand Island, issued a statement opposing the execution of Carey Dean Moore.

"As the Catholic Bishops of Nebraska, we recognize that our society has a pervasive culture of violence and death which can only be transformed by a counter-culture of justice and mercy. Each time we consider applying capital punishment, Nebraska has an opportunity to respond to an act of violence with an act of mercy that does not endanger public safety or compromise the demands of justice. There is no doubt the state has the responsibility to administer just punishment. However, given our modern prison system, the execution of Carey Dean Moore is not necessary to fulfill justice and, for that reason, would undermine respect for human life. We continue to offer our sincerest prayers for all victims and those affected by the heinous crimes of Mr. Moore, and we pray for his conversion of heart."

The Nebraska Catholic Conference has a longstanding position against the death penalty and supported Referendum 426 on the November 8, 2016 ballot to uphold a ban on the death penalty in Nebraska.