Crime and Punishment

AITOOW wonders why murder is the worst crime one can commit in a Judeo-Christian society? If you believe in an afterlife, aren't you doing them a favor and fast tracking them to a better world? Other crimes take something from the victim that they have to live with in this life. Is the law so strict because they are worried about the killer's soul? But, I thought that a pure soul had to be self-regulating. Are they worried that a random killing will strip the victim of his last rites? Can't that happen with natural or accidental deaths? Are they worried that the victim (if sinful) is stripped of their chance to atone? But, that can also happen with natural or accidental deaths? I don't even want to go into the impotent God debate (free will). Maybe it's a crime because what it takes from the family and friends and society? But, then shouldn't it be punished like other thefts?