My grandmother lives in CA and says her memory tells her that those on death row cost tax payers more (in CA) than those serving life sentences because of all the numerous appeals the person has a right to. It can take up to 20 plus years and the people are paying for all the the appeals for nothing-- but it is his right. It's been going on for a long time. It seems that it is less costly for taxpayers to put people on life in prison. And more tortutuous I would think. Personally, I would like a confession.