It doesn't work for rape.
Years ago, rape was a capital crime in California and many rapists were executed. I'd dare say they were executing as many criminals for rape as for murder. Then it was discovered that rapists were murdering their victims after finishing with them (no downside risk for the criminal). After realizing that, California removed capital punishment as the penalty for rape.
Castration is still on the statue books as a punishment for rape. Chemical castration is sometimes used. IMHO, castration the old fashioned way with a dull rusty knife is the best response to rape.
Gary