Death sentences in the United States are below 100 for the first time since 1976 . Only 43 people have been put to death in 2011 , down 56 % from 12 years ago . A poll conducted in October found 50 % of Americans favor a sentence of life in prison . Comment:
Death sentences in the United States are below 100 for the first time since 1976 . Only 43 people have been put to death in 2011 , down 56 % from 12 years ago . A poll conducted in October found 50 % of Americans favor a sentence of life in prison . California voters could decide next year whether to abandon the death penalty .