I think that the death penalty is necessary in some cases. Life in Prison can be a worse punishment if the person feels guilt for what they did, but most people who comit crimes of this nature do not. Also, what are they learning in prison when they have access to TV, internet, games, it's like a hotel in some of these places. I know because I know several people who work in a prison in Huntsville, TX, and this is a facility that the hard criminals go to, it's where they put some to death.
When I think of people like Manson, sitting in prison for life, making millions on book deals, artists singing his songs, etc, it sickens me. He feels no remorse, and he should be put to death. His punishment has taught him nothing, so the punishment must be changed. So many criminals are in the same situation, just hanging back, no worries. It's disgusting. People who criminally insane are a different story, I agree they need help. And the guy in this story might just be in that group. However, some killers know how to put up a front, and they get away with it. Are legal system is not perfect, but when it works right it's great. The problem is the poiliticians behind the scenes pulling the strings. That must change.