Why? It's simple. Cheshire Police, State Police and prosecutors really, really do not want to screw up this case. Given the severity of the crime and the public outrage, they have to make sure their case against Joshua Komisarjevsky and Steven Hayes is airtight.

One thing is for certain: prosecutors say they will seek the death penalty against the suspects, if they're convicted.

Each was charged Thursday with 6 counts of capital felony.

The death penalty is one of those hot button issues. You're either for it or against it. But judging from public reaction, the death penalty picked up some new fans this week.

If you're against the death penalty, I have nothing but respect for your opinion.

Taken at face value, I was always for it.

Then, 2 years ago, I was one of 5 members of the media who witnessed the execution of Michael Ross.

This is where I'm supposed to say it changed my life, or altered my view of the death penalty.

It did not.

As a matter of fact, it didn't bother me at all.

And no, I didn't go through a period of introspection to figure out WHY it didn't bother me. Sorry.

The creepiest part was not the execution, but the walk to the death chamber.

Looking at the dull grays and greens of the corridors...walking through the massive steel doors...noting the slots in the cell doors...hearing the echo of our footsteps.

And THAT's the part that got me to thinking, "What's worse? Death? Or life without the possibility of parole in here?"

I don't know. But I suspect death may be preferable, and I suspect that's why Michael Ross got what he wanted. Death.

It had been 45 years between executions in Connecticut, and it may be 45 more before the next one. Or two.

But first, in this awful case, let the law do its job thoroughly and properly.

And foremost, let the Petits grieve thoroughly and properly.

A funeral service will be held today for Jennifer, Hayley and Michaela. The family has nicely asked the news media to stay away.

NBC 30 will honor that request.