DEATH PENALTY IS SOMETIMES WARRANTED

The death penalty is no cure-all for the most heinous crimes committed in this country. But in certain cases, there seems to be a compelling argument for imposing capital punishment. It was something of a disappointment that the American Bar Association this week took its first stand ever on the issue -- calling for a moratorium on executions.

The move prompted many prosecutors around the country to protest, some with resignations from the prestigious ABA, including that of Cape Girardeau County's prosecuting attorney, Morley Swingle. Others, including a public defender in the county, said they would become members of the ABA because of the stand.

The ABA president and the Clinton adminsitration favor the death penalty. They are joined by countless others who see the need in some circumstances to end the life of violent offenders. It can be hoped this view will prevail.