Death Penalty - Former Chief Investigator John Wayne Gacy Murders

Des Plaines, Illinois  60016

March 2, 2011

The Honorable Governor Pat Quinn

Springfield, Illinois

Dear Honorable Governor Quinn:

I had the pleasure of meeting you briefly during the City of Des Plaines’ Fourth of July Parade, 2010. 

I am the retired Chief of Police for the City of Des Plaines, Illinois and I was the Chief Investigator and arresting officer of serial murderer John Wayne Gacy.  I, along with many state legislators, witnessed the execution of Gacy. The sentiments of many of the individuals in attendance paralleled my own strong feelings supporting the death penalty.  The age old argument that the death penalty does not stop individuals from committing horrendous crimes is a fallacy in my professional opinion. The fact that Gacy will not commit another murder, another torture, another kidnapping and will certainly not be able to inflict any more pain and suffering on the families of his victims, proves that the "Death Penalty" does work!

Unfortunately, the pain and suffering inflicted on the family and friends of the victims is one that lasts a lifetime even when society’s evil menaces, such as Gacy, are executed.  The ramifications of heinous crimes, such as that committed by Gacy, are beyond measure.  I am asking that you consider not signing the bill that would abolish the Death Penalty.

 I quote from the late Kenneth L. Piest, M.D., family member of Gacy's last victim:

 “There are those who have claimed that the death penalty is "cruel and unusual punishment".  Cruel and unusual punishment is how the victims were murdered; handcuffed, a rope put around their necks, twisted slowly as to have the person hover on the edge of death until Gacy decided it was time to die. It is not being 'cruel' to be given sedation, having an IV started, and given a painless, lethal dose of medication." 

As a society we need to wake-up to the realities of violence in this country.  There is an adage in our country: “If you can't do the time, don't do the crime."  This same concept can be applied to the death penalty.

We must stand strong against being victimized, threatened, and placed in fear of our families or our own safety.  Let us not forget our public safety men and women who risk their lives for the communities that they serve. Are they to become targets of criminals who will not fear retribution for their crimes?

I have enclosed a complete copy of the letter that I quoted from and I encourage you to read it.  We must start to make a difference.  We must keep the health, safety and welfare of Illinois residents a priority.  Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Joseph R. Kozenczak

Chief of Police (retired) Des Plaines, Illinois