Ohio's attorney general says the low number of death sentences being handed down in the state is a trend that's likely here to stay.
Attorney General Richard Cordray says it appears judges, juries and prosecutors are increasingly comfortable with the growing use of life without the possibility of parole.
Cordray also notes what he calls the odd conjunction of fewer death sentences but increasing executions, with about one per month currently being carried out.
The attorney general's annual report on capital punishment released Thursday notes one death sentence was imposed in Ohio last year, with 159 men and one woman on death row.
Ohio judges have sentenced two men to death so far this year. The next execution is scheduled for April 20.
(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)