Easley Says He Won't Support Ending Death Penalty

A proposed bill put on hold in the state Senate would suspend the death penalty for two years while experts study it, but some opponents believe the bill would be one step closer to ending it in North Carolina.

Easley told WRAL that while he would not support any measures to end the death penalty, he said he would consider a review of the system.

"If it's done in good faith, with good intent that still protects the integrity of the death penalty, then I would give it a fair look," Easley said.

House Speaker Jim Black, D-Mecklenburg County, said Thursday, that at the very least, he wants a comprehensive study on the fairness of the death penalty.

The House was expected to vote on the moratorium Wednesday, but now, may debate on it in a couple of weeks.