OF4-09/23/08 9:25 AM
EXECUTION SET FOR TROY DAVIS IN GEORGIA.
The Osgood File. I'm Charles Osgood.
One of the arguments against capital punishment is that sometimes, the wrong person is put to death. That may happen at seven o'clock this evening in Georgia, where --- unless there is a last-minute stay --- Troy Davis will be executed for shooting a police officer in Savannah, Georgia in August of 1989 --- which he has steadfastly denied.
He was convicted in a trial that produced no evidence of his guilt. And, seven witnesses who testified against him have recanted and are now trying to clear his name.
SOT - Christopher Hill, ACLU
"They were either coerced into testifying (or) making statements, because they were threatened by police --- that would be charged with crimes..."
Christopher Hill of the American Civil Liberties Union.
You might think that any one of the seven witnesses who now say their testimony against Troy Davis wasn't true might be enough to order a new trial.
SOT - Christopher Hill
"One person in an affidavit said that he signed a statement that he didn't read, because he could not read."
But twice, the Georgia Supreme Court has refused to order a new trial or hearing --- and just yesterday, denied a motion to stay tonight's execution. This isn't right, says Christopher Hill.
SOT - Christopher Hill
"There ought to be a way for somebody who has proof of witness recantation and police coercion to come before a court and get a new hearing."
The United States Supreme Court could intervene. But they are not in session until the First Monday in October. That would be too late to spare Troy Davis.
Out of session, one or more Justices could order a stay --- today --- if they knew about this and were so inclined. The system does make mistakes, you know.
SOT - Christopher Hill
"There have been 130 people exonerated from death row in the last 35 years."
The Osgood File. Transcripts, podcasts, and Mp3s of this program can be found at theosgoodfile.com. I'm Charles Osgood on the CBS Radio Network.
The Osgood File. September 23rd, 2008. |
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