The excessive amount of money that is spent each year on executions in the United States could easily be spent on something that would make society better and more protected . Richard Dieter writes: “The costs of the death penalty must be compared with other ways to achieve a safer community. The money saved by forgoing the death penalty is desperately needed elsewhere: to hire and train police, solve more crimes, improve forensic laboratories and timely DNA testing, and prevent crime.” While some monetary contributions may be made to the government to help protect society, money may also be spent to improve things within society. “Surely there are more pressing needs that deserve funding, such as maintaining police officers, rebuilding roads and bridges, creating jobs, providing health care for children, and keeping libraries open” (Dieter) . These are positive actions that can be financed with the money used to support the death