1978 United States Virgin Islands death penalty referendum

A referendum on the death penalty was held in the United States Virgin Islands on 7 November 1978, in response to a decree by the Governor of the Islands. He requested a non-binding consultative referendum be held in conjunction with the next general election.

Results

Voting Question:

Which of the following statements best represents your view on capital punishment?

• (1) I favor capital punishment for all persons convicted of first degree murder.
• (2) I favor capital punishment only for those persons convicted of first degree murder of a law enforcement officer, or murder committed in the perpetration or attempt to perpetrate rape.
• (3) I oppose capital punishment for any crime.

Choice		Votes	%
Option 1		6,760	41.52
Option 2		2,243	13.78
Option 3		7,280	44.71
Total		16,283	100.00
Valid votes		16,283	74.58
Invalid votes		444	2.03
Blank votes		5,106	23.39
Total votes		21,833	100.00
Source: Direct Democracy