Personally, I reject that argument. I would like to think I would never commit a heinous crime (especially one such as THAT), but the truth is, if my brain chemistry were altered sufficiently, or I was told it was "okay" to kill people due to my role in society (armed services, for example), or I was being tortured past the point of human endurance, I have no idea what I might do or the words that might come out of my mouth. My ability to cope with those actions (comforted by my role as a protector of others, horrified because of addiction, amused due to being a psychopath - whatever!) is a different matter.
I am "not better" than this person; I am lucky. I pray I stay lucky. And I am no better or worse than the next human being.
With that being said, I support the death penalty in cases of terrible crimes such as the one mentioned. I am not interested in his penance or redemption; there are points where, once a person goes beyond them (even through no fault of their own in the case of those with altered brain chemistry not by choice), if you put your baby in the microwave due to post partem depression (for example), the planet is better off without you on it.
Same goes for the guy mentioned in the original post; may God have mercy on his soul, because it isn't my place to grant it. If the mother of his victim wants him dead, put him down. If her peace requires him to live in a box, so be it.
My thoughts; your mileage may vary.
Sigh.
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