Montgomery, AL – In response to the U.S. Supreme Court’s legal clearance for the execution of Casey A. McWhorter, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has opted not to exercise her clemency powers in the case. Governor Ivey directed Corrections Commissioner John Hamm to proceed with the lawful implementation of Mr. McWhorter’s death sentence for the 1993 premeditated murder of Edward Lee Williams.
The Governor released a statement regarding the execution:
“Edward Lee Williams’ life was taken away from him at the hands of Casey A. McWhorter, and tonight, Mr. McWhorter answered for his actions. In February 1993 in Marshall County, Mr. McWhorter joined two others in ambushing and shooting to death Mr. Williams. After Mr. Williams was struck at least 11 times with .22 caliber rifles, each with makeshift silencers, Mr. McWhorter fired at least one round into Mr. Williams’ head to assure his death.
“Despite the fact that Mr. McWhorter managed to delay his date with justice for over three decades, his guilt of Mr. Williams’ premeditated robbery and murder was never in question. In Alabama, we uphold the rule of law and hold accountable those who take the lives of others. Casey McWhorter has finally paid for his heinous crime.” – Governor Kay Ivey
The decision follows a lengthy legal process, culminating in the Supreme Court’s approval of the execution. The Governor’s statement underscores the severity of McWhorter’s crimes and the commitment of the state of Alabama to uphold the rule of law.
The execution, carried out as per the law, marks the conclusion of a case that spanned over three decades. Governor Ivey’s statement emphasizes the state’s dedication to accountability for those convicted of grave offenses such as premeditated robbery and murder.
