Tension Mounts as South Carolina Prepares for First Execution in Over a Decade

Columbia, S.C. – A Tense Time Ahead for Death Row Inmate

In a dramatic development within South Carolina’s legal landscape, a scheduled execution is stirring up both tension and heartache in Columbia. Freddie Eugene Owens, who is set to make history as the first inmate executed in the state after a 13-year hiatus, is facing the clock with an execution date looming on the horizon.

Owens, now 46 years old, is requesting that a federal judge alter the way clemency is granted in South Carolina. The heart of the matter is the power that currently lies in the hands of Governor Henry McMaster, a former attorney general with a tough-on-crime reputation. Owens’ legal team is advocating for the clemency decision to be transferred to a parole board instead. Why? Because they claim the governor’s past role as a prosecutor may bias his decision regarding a case he has fought so hard to uphold.

A Legal Tug-of-War Unfolds

According to Owens’ lawyers, McMaster’s history puts him in a challenging position. They argue that if the governor were to grant clemency, he would essentially have to contradict his previous work when he was in the role of state lead prosecutor for eight years starting in 2003. His legal team is deeply concerned that this could compromise Owens’ chance at receiving a fair consideration. “For Moore to receive clemency, McMaster would have to renounce years of his own work,” they assert.

This legal conflict highlights a significant issue in the state’s justice system, as lawyers for the governor argue that past positions do not strip away the governor’s current responsibilities and rights in deciding on clemency. In fact, McMaster’s legal team insists that he has yet to make a decision on Owens’ plea for mercy.

Upcoming Court Hearing

Mark your calendars! A hearing is set for Tuesday in federal court here in Columbia to address this notable case. As the clock ticks down towards the execution date, the air is thick with anticipation. Owens’ case centers around a grim incident that took place in September 1999 when he attempted to rob a store. It was during this attempted robbery that he became embroiled in a gunfight with the clerk, leading to the tragic death of James Mahoney.

Current state law indicates that Owens has until October 18 to clarify whether he will choose to die by electrocution or let the decision pass by default. That’s a heavy weight to carry for someone who has already spent years behind bars, especially considering that no inmate has been executed in South Carolina in over a decade due to difficulties in securing the necessary drugs for lethal injection.

A Call for Clemency?

Interestingly, the track record in South Carolina is clear—no governor has granted clemency in the modern era of the death penalty. Historically, McMaster has stated that he reviews each case thoroughly before making any final decisions. His reluctance to commute death sentences speaks volumes about his position on such matters.

In light of this, Owens’ lawyers argue that he is precisely the type of individual who could benefit from clemency. They paint a picture of a man who, despite his past mistakes, has taken on roles of mentorship within the prison system and works to atone for his actions. They describe him as a “loving and supportive father, grandfather, and friend,” highlighting his exemplary conduct while incarcerated.

Closure in Sight?

As we await the verdict of this burgeoning debate on clemency, it’s essential to consider how decisions made may not only affect Owens but also the broader implications for the justice system in South Carolina. With emotions running high and stakes even higher, the coming weeks promise to be a pivotal moment in this complex tale of life, death, and the pursuit of justice.

As the hearing unfolds, many will be watching to see if history will be made—not just for Owens but for the state itself regarding its approach to clemency and the death penalty.