Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt has commuted high-profile death-row inmate Julius Jones’ sentence hours before the scheduled execution.
Stitt released the following statement regarding the decision.
“After prayerful consideration and reviewing all the materials presented by all sides of this case, I have determined to commute Julius Jones’ sentence to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.”
Jones, is accused of murdering Edmond businessman Paul Howell in 1999. The Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board recommended clemency and a commutation of Jones’ sentence to life in prison with the possibility for parole on Nov 1.
The Governor’s ruling makes it so Jones can never again be eligible to apply for, be considered for, or receive any additional commutation, pardon or parole.
Stitt had the final say on whether to grant Jones’ clemency. Jones’ execution, scheduled for 4 p.m. on Nov. 18 has been canceled.
People began gathering around Stitt’s office at the Capitol in support of Jones on Tuesday. Jones’ execution is scheduled for Thursday. The execution would be the second since the state lifted the moratorium following multiple botched executions in the past.
Jones has garnered attention from celebrities and athletes across the country for the situation.