The Jerusalem District Court on Thursday, 27 Cheshvan, sentenced Kifah Ghanimat, who was convicted of the murder of American tourist Kristine Luken HY”D, to two life terms plus 60 years. Ghanimat and other suspects were taken into custody in January 2011 as was reported by YWN-ISRAEL. A friend of the victim, Kaye Wilson, succeeded in fleeing the scene, saving her own life.
The court commented on the “cruelty and wickedness” off the act, stabbing the defenseless women, addressing Ghanimat, who was convicted of four murders as well as other crimes, which include robbery and assault.
Some present pointed out that while the verdict is a welcome one, there is an awareness that once again Israel is filling its prisons in preparation for the release of these heinous individuals in the next prisoner exchange deal.
(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)
In such a case where there is no doubt that the accused is guilty of murder, the death penalty should be implemented.
It is a shame that Israel doesn’t have the death penalty for these murderers. Being given life in jail means nothing since they hope to be released with the next (may HaShem prevent) kidnapping.