Data on the offenses and the offender were collected from the presentence investigation reports in case files maintained by the Kentucky Corrections Cabinet and the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction. Similarities and differences were found. Regarding offense characteristics, the only statistically significant difference between the States was that a higher percent of Ohio inmates (44.7 percent) used multiple shots to dispatch their victims in comparison with Kentucky counterparts. The Ohio cohort committed homicides deemed more heinous than the Kentucky cohort. The demographic and criminal history variables of the two groups were comparable. Both groups had similar recidivism rates, and none of the paroled inmates in either group committed another murder. However, two members of the Ohio cohort committed subsequent murders while in prison. Overall, the experience of the Furman cohort demonstrates that the death penalty is not required for societal protection. 1 note and 5 references.