Walter James Bolton executed in New Zealand
February 18th, 1957
February 18th, 1957
How Long Ago?
68 years, 24 days ago
Location
Auckland, New Zealand
Category
Crime & Law
People
- Walter James Bolton
- Joan Frances Bolton
Links & References
Tags
Walter James Bolton executed in New Zealand
Walter James Bolton was executed in New Zealand, becoming the last person to face the death penalty in the country. He was convicted of the murder of 18-month-old Joan Frances Bolton, his daughter, in 1956. The case drew significant media attention and instigated a debate about the death penalty. The execution took place at Auckland Prison, and Bolton was hanged. His fate ended a longstanding use of capital punishment in New Zealand, marking a significant shift in the country’s legal landscape that would lead to the eventual abolition of the death penalty altogether.
Bolton was convicted of murdering his daughter.
His execution was met with public outcry.
He was sentenced to hang at Auckland Prison.
This case led to the abolition of the death penalty.
What Happened?
Walter James Bolton's execution was a pivotal moment in New Zealand's legal history. Bolton was convicted in 1956 for the murder of his infant daughter, Joan Frances Bolton, who was just 18 months old. The public sensationalized the case due to its nature, and it received extensive media coverage. During the trial, evidence suggested a turbulent relationship between Bolton and his wife, and the prosecution argued he acted out of rage, though Bolton maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings. Following the conviction, the case stirred strong emotions within the community and opinions were deeply divided regarding Bolton's guilt and the appropriateness of capital punishment for the crime he was accused of.Bolton was sentenced to hang. The execution took place at Auckland Prison, where he was hanged on February 18, 1957. This marked a significant moment not just for Bolton, but for New Zealand as well; he would become the last person legally executed in the country. Following his execution, public opposition to the death penalty grew significantly. The moral and ethical implications of capital punishment were hotly debated in New Zealand society, ultimately leading to a movement toward its abolition. In 1961, capital punishment was suspended, and by 1989 it was officially abolished.
Why Does it Matter?
The execution of Walter James Bolton is significant as it marked the end of capital punishment in New Zealand. It sparked a nationwide discussion about the morality and efficacy of the death penalty. Following Bolton's execution, there was increasing opposition to the death penalty which culminated in New Zealand becoming one of the first countries to abolish it entirely in favor of more rehabilitative forms of justice.
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