Home » South Carolina executes Richard Moore amid broad plea for clemency

South Carolina executes Richard Moore amid broad plea for clemency

The trial judge, a former prison director, and Moore’s family, South Carolina executed Richard Moore by lethal injection on Friday.

img_0868.jpg

The trial judge, a former prison director, and Moore’s family, South Carolina executed Richard Moore by lethal injection on Friday. Moore, 59, was sentenced to death for the 1999 killing of James Mahoney, a convenience store clerk, during an altercation that Moore’s lawyers argued was self-defense.

In his last message, read by attorney Lindsey Vann, Moore expressed deep remorse to Mahoney’s family: “I am deeply sorry for the pain and sorrow I caused you all.” He also shared final words of love with his children and grandchildren, calling them “the joy” of his life.

Also Read: Japan plans automated cargo corridor to tackle driver shortage, cut emissions

Moore’s lawyers urged Governor Henry McMaster to reduce his sentence to life without parole, citing his rehabilitation in prison and spotless record. They argued that Moore, a Black man, was unfairly sentenced by a jury with no African Americans. McMaster declined to grant clemency but did not provide a reason, stating only that he had reviewed all materials from Moore’s defense and spoken with Mahoney’s family.

Moore’s execution comes as South Carolina resumes the death penalty after a 13-year pause due to difficulties securing lethal injection drugs. Four other inmates are now out of appeals, with the state planning to proceed with their executions in the coming months.

About The Author

Copyright © All rights reserved.