Read the eighth amendment to the constitution.
excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted.

which statement best summarizes the intent of the eighth amendment?

a. people accused of crimes have no rights until there is a verdict in court.
b. the government has specific ways in which it can punish criminals.
c. people accused of crimes have specific constitutional protections.
d. the government may choose to inflict any kinds of punishment it chooses.

C. People accused of crimes have specific constitutional protections.

The amendment explicitly states that no "cruel and unusual punishments" would be placed on a criminal, nor would they have to post "excessive bail".  These are protections granted to protect accused people.

Choice A is wrong because it provides rights to people outside of the court.

Choice B is wrong because it does not address any of the specific forms of punishment the government can use.

Choice D is wrong because it states that the government cannot do whatever it pleases in terms of criminal punishment.

Hope this helps!!