(AmericanProsperity.com) – Marking the final execution in the U.S. for 2024, Oklahoma executed murderer Kevin Ray Underwood for the heinous crime against a 10-year-old girl.
Six days ago, Underwood was put to death by lethal injection in Oklahoma for the 2006 murder of Jamie Rose Bolin.
The execution was carried out on Underwood’s 45th birthday and was the 25th and final one in the United States for the year.
Oklahoma’s unwavering commitment to justice prevailed despite attempts by death penalty opponents to halt the execution.
Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond emphasized the importance of this execution, stating, “Jamie’s family has waited 18 excruciating years for justice that finally will be carried out when this murderer is executed.”
The details of Underwood’s crime are deeply disturbing. He admitted to luring Jamie into his apartment, beating her, suffocating her, and sexually assaulting her with the intention of cannibalizing her body.
“I am pleased the board voted to deny clemency for this deeply evil monster and ensured that justice will be delivered for Jamie Rose Bolin,” Attorney General Drummond added.
Despite attempts by Underwood’s attorneys to seek clemency based on claims of mental health issues and a history of abuse, the Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board unanimously rejected these arguments.
While some states have moved away from capital punishment, Oklahoma remains committed to delivering justice for victims and their families.
Moreover, there are currently 32 men and one woman on Oklahoma’s death row, with the state having executed 209 people since 1915.
The execution of Kevin Ray Underwood serves as a reminder of the ongoing debate surrounding capital punishment in America.
While Biden has placed a moratorium on the federal death penalty, President-elect Donald Trump has expressed intentions to expand its use once he is at the Oval Office.
Jamie’s sister, Lori Pate, who was among several relatives who witnessed the execution, thanked prosecutors for helping guide her family through the nearly 18-year process from Jamie’s death to Underwood’s execution.
“This doesn’t bring our Jamie back but it does allow the space in our hearts to focus on her and allow the healing process to begin,” Pate said.
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