Life without possibility of parole (LWOP) is a term used to describe a form of imprisonment for which a prisoner is not eligible for release. For many, LWOP is seen as the harshest form of punishment, an extreme and stricter sentence than even a death penalty.
In the eyes of the law, LWOP is seen as the harshest form of punishment. It is, in essence, a total forfeiture of life, a life that will be spent entirely in prison. It is an irreversible sentence, one with no hope of parole, no chance of rehabilitation, and no chance of release. Such an extreme sentence is usually imposed only in cases of culpable homicide, serious violent or sexual offences, or when a prisoner’s prior record suggests his/her danger to the public is of such magnitude that they must never be allowed to be released and free from custody.
In the United States, numerous people have received LWOP sentences. Some of the most prominent cases have been people who were given LWOP for non-violent offences such as drug offences. For instance, in 1994, Robert Magelssen was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for conspiring to sell marijuana and possession of firearms. Similarly, in 2010, Armando Torres III was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for drug trafficking.
In recent years, the legal community has seen changes in the LWOP statute. Many states have adopted laws that allow juveniles to be released on parole after serving a certain length of time in prison. This shift in the law is based in part on the belief that children should be given the chance to be rehabilitated and reintegrated into society as productive citizens. While LWOP continues to be imposed for several crimes, many state legislatures have realized that the flexibility of parole should remain an option.
In summary, life without possibility of parole is seen as an extreme and irreversible form of punishment, usually imposed in cases of extreme culpability or danger to the public. While changes to the LWOP statute have been implemented in some states, the decision to levy the sentence has remained the prerogative of the court.