The prohibition of cruel and unusual punishment is a constitutional principle, found in the Eighth Amendment, that prevents the government from imposing excessively harsh or inhumane punishments on individuals convicted of crimes.
Related terms
Capital Punishment: Refers to the practice of sentencing someone to death for committing a serious crime.
Excessive Force: Describes the use of unnecessary or disproportionate physical force by law enforcement officers during an arrest or other interactions with individuals.
Rehabilitation: Focuses on reforming offenders through education, therapy, and other programs aimed at reducing future criminal behavior.
"Prohibition of Cruel and Unusual Punishment" also found in: