COLUMBIA, S.C. – Richard Moore Chooses Lethal Injection for Execution Scheduled on November 1
Richard Moore, a 59-year-old inmate in South Carolina, has made the decision to be executed by **_lethal injection_** instead of other available methods. His execution is set for **_November 1_**, following his conviction for the 1999 murder of convenience store clerk James Mahoney.
Details of the Crime
Moore was sentenced to death after robbing Mahoney at a store in **_Spartanburg County_**. According to authorities, Moore entered the convenience store unarmed, but during the robbery, he seized a gun from Mahoney. The situation escalated into a shootout, resulting in both men being injured. Prosecutors stated that Moore’s blood was discovered on Mahoney’s body, indicating a struggle as Moore attempted to find cash after the altercation.
Legal Context and Execution Choices
In compliance with recent changes to state law, Moore was given the choice to select his method of execution. Under normal circumstances, if he had not made a selection by **_Friday_**, the state would have proceeded with electrocution. However, Moore opted for lethal injection, which represents a return to the method after a significant hiatus due to issues in acquiring the necessary drugs.
Return to Execution in South Carolina
The execution for Moore will be the second in South Carolina after a **_13-year pause_** in executions. The first execution occurred on **_September 20_**, when Freddie Owens was put to death by lethal injection under the new protocol using a single drug, **_pentobarbital_**. This approach mirrors the federal government’s execution method, which has been adopted after changes to law facilitated the procurement of this drug.
Arguments for Clemency
Moore’s legal team is mounting a campaign for clemency. They argue that Moore did not enter the store with a gun and that his actions could be viewed as self-defense in response to Mahoney’s threat. Moreover, there are **_no violations_** on Moore’s prison record, and he has engaged positively in prison activities, including mentoring other inmates.
Governor’s Role in Clemency
The power to grant clemency lies solely with Governor Henry McMaster. Historical data indicates that no governor in South Carolina has granted clemency since the reintroduction of the death penalty. Moore’s attorneys have petitioned a federal court to compel the governor to consider grace, particularly in light of McMaster’s earlier statements indicating no intention to commute sentences.
Execution Methods and Their History
Amidst Moore’s case, South Carolina’s methods of execution have come under scrutiny. The state has previously utilized the electric chair, but it has been nearly five years since electrocution was last used in executions across the U.S. In the last 50 years, firing squads have only been employed three times, exclusively in Utah, raising questions about their potential implementation in South Carolina.
Conclusion
As the execution date approaches, the legal landscape surrounding Moore’s case remains complex. His choice of lethal injection highlights the gravity of the situation and the challenges faced by states in carrying out executions. With multiple viewpoints concerning his actions and incarceration, the final decision will weigh heavily on both the legal system and public sentiment in South Carolina.
