A call for justice

The state of Texas intends to kill two individuals within 24 hours on Aug. 23 and 24, 2016. In both cases, there are strong indicators that the defendants may be innocent. A gross misuse of justice does not serve the victims, our society or those who have been sentenced to death.

Please consider joining the bishops, through the Texas Catholic Conference, in requesting a stay of execution for both Robert Pruett and Jeff Wood. You may write to both the Texas governor and the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles at the addresses below:

The Honorable Greg Abbott

Governor’s Office

P.O. Box 12428

Austin, TX 78711

Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles

Clemency Section

8610 Shoal Creek Blvd.

Austin, TX 78758

Jeff Wood has not ever killed another person. He was not even in the building when the murder for which he is sentenced took place. His mental health and the witness of a now-discredited psychiatrist seem to be the primary reasons for his capital punishment. You can find out more by reading asubmitted to the governor and board and arecent news story.

Robert Pruett’s case for clemency revolves around the fact that there is no physical evidence tying him to his alleged crime and possibly false testimony. More information is available throughthis news story, and the.