Washington State Correctional Officer Practice Exam

Which amendment prohibits cruel and unusual punishment?

1. 1st amendment

2. 4th amendment

3. 8th amendment

4. 14th amendment

The correct answer is: 8th amendment

The 8th amendment is the correct answer because it specifically addresses the issues of punishment within the criminal justice system. It states, "Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted." This amendment is a critical component of the Bill of Rights and serves to protect individuals from overly harsh treatment by the state. The principle behind this amendment is to ensure that punishments are proportionate to the crime committed and that they maintain a level of human dignity. Understanding the specific language of the 8th amendment helps in recognizing its role in limiting the government's power to impose harsh penalties on individuals. This is particularly important in the context of correctional practices, where ensuring the humane treatment of inmates is vital. Conversely, the other amendments mentioned focus on different rights and protections: the 1st amendment deals with freedom of speech and religion, the 4th amendment guards against unreasonable searches and seizures, and the 14th amendment addresses citizenship rights and equal protection under the law. These amendments do not pertain to the prohibition of cruel and unusual punishment, reinforcing the distinct and specific focus of the 8th amendment.