Kendrick Simpson Clemency Denied by Oklahoma Board

Clemency Denied for Death-Row Inmate Kendrick Simpson

The Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board has voted to deny clemency for death-row inmate Kendrick Simpson, clearing the way for his scheduled execution next month following a highly emotional hearing.

Kendrick Simpson Clemency Denied After Board Review

In a 3–2 vote, board members rejected requests to commute Simpson’s death sentence. The hearing included testimony from survivor London Johnson, who urged the board to deny clemency and described the lasting trauma caused by the 2006 attack.

Prosecutors argued that Kendrick Simpson hunted his victims, using an AK-style rifle and demonstrating deliberate intent. The state maintained that the severity of the crime and Simpson’s actions before and after the killings warranted the death penalty.

State Argues Kendrick Simpson Clemency Denied Based on Crime Severity

The Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office opposed clemency, emphasizing that Simpson’s actions reflected planning, pursuit, and a lack of remorse. Attorneys told the board that granting clemency would undermine justice for the victims and their families.

According to court records maintained by the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals, Simpson was convicted of murdering two people in January 2006. The state argued that the case does not meet the criteria for mercy outlined in Oklahoma’s clemency standards.

Execution Date Approaches Following Clemency Decision

Advocates opposing the death penalty argued Simpson has shown personal growth while incarcerated and cited broader concerns about capital punishment. However, board members said the evidence and victim testimony outweighed those arguments.

Simpson remains scheduled for execution in February, unless further legal action is taken by the courts or the governor. Oklahoma continues to rank among states with the highest number of executions per capita, according to data from the Death Penalty Information Center.

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