Derrick Dearman, executed in October 2024, tested positive for methamphetamine, confirming eyewitness accounts of his drug use before death. This revelation is not unique, as at least three other inmates executed since Alabama resumed executions in 2023 also had illegal drugs in their systems. Experts and legal representatives suggest the presence of drugs within the prison system indicates broader issues, including potential staff involvement in smuggling contraband and a general lack of control. In light of this, there is a call for the state to investigate the source of the drugs and take the issue more seriously.
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James Robertson, a South Carolina death row inmate convicted of murdering his parents, seeks to represent himself, potentially accelerating his execution. This decision follows the recent executions of five fellow inmates, including his best friend, significantly impacting the death row population. A federal judge has granted a delay to ensure Robertson understands the ramifications of self-representation, ordering an evaluation to confirm his competency. Robertson’s history includes previous attempts to drop his appeals, indicating a potential pattern of behavior, although he has expressed understanding of his friend’s similar decision to volunteer for execution.
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President Biden commuted the sentences of 37 federal death row inmates, changing their punishments to life imprisonment without parole. This action, excluding three inmates convicted of terrorism or hate crimes, follows months of advocacy and reflects Biden’s evolving stance against the death penalty. The decision aims to prevent the incoming administration from resuming federal executions, a practice significantly increased under the Trump administration. This commutation is part of a broader clemency initiative by Biden, unprecedented in its scale and scope.
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President Biden is considering commuting the sentences of all 40 federal death row inmates, a move spurred by advocacy from religious and civil rights organizations. This action, potentially finalized before Christmas, faces strong Republican opposition, with concerns raised about prioritizing progressive politics over victims’ families. Attorney General Garland suggested exceptions for terrorism and hate crimes, potentially impacting high-profile cases like the Boston Marathon bombing. The commutations would directly counter the incoming Trump administration’s plans to resume federal executions.
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John Q. Hosedrinker