[An Old Man]

"...this is a totally useless exercise."

It's difficult to argue with that. If I may offer another solution to the problem.

Perhaps, we could pass another law. We could simply request the criminal leave a note at the scene of the crime just like when you park to close to my new car and accidentally put another ding in the side of the door.

Simple, cost effective and except for the criminal should not offend anyone.

[Myrddin]

Your alternative is as effective as theirs. Perhaps we should outlaw murder and prosecute people who aren't courteous enough to abide by that law.