The state of Missouri executed Joseph Franklin last night. Was there a compelling case to keep him alive?

Mr. Franklin was convicted of eight different murders in a number of states; one of those carried the death penalty. He was sentenced to death in 1997.

I’m well aware of the arguments against the death penalty. That’s not the issue I want to rehash today.

My question – primarily aimed at people who were against yesterday’s execution:

Were there compelling reasons to have kept him alive and in prison?