Oklahoma City — A coalition advocating for the abolition of the death penalty is gathering support for Kendrick Simpson, an inmate on death row convicted of a double homicide nearly 20 years ago. As his execution date approaches, various lawmakers and activists are calling for clemency, citing Simpson’s mental health struggles and the circumstances surrounding his conviction.
Simpson was found guilty in 2006 for the murders of Glen Palmer and Anthony Jones. His attorney, Emma Rolls, argues that significant flaws marred the legal proceedings, suggesting that the jury did not fully consider Simpson’s history of trauma and mental illness. Simpson, who is set to speak at his clemency hearing next week, acknowledges the pain he has caused but emphasizes his deeply troubled background as a critical factor in his actions.
Growing up in New Orleans’ Ninth Ward, Simpson faced numerous hardships, including surviving Hurricane Katrina and experiencing violence and abuse. His attorney asserts that PTSD and paranoia impaired his judgment during the events leading to the tragic deaths. “Kendrick accepts that he will be punished and knows he will not be leaving prison alive,” Rolls stated during a rally at the state capitol. “He takes responsibility for his actions but hopes for understanding regarding the profound impact of his mental health conditions.”
Supporters at the rally argue that the legal process failed Simpson by neglecting to address the significant influence of his mental health challenges on his behavior. They contend that without this context, the jury could not make a fully informed decision.
On the opposing side, Attorney General Gentner Drummond strongly opposes clemency, asserting that Simpson has shown no genuine remorse for his actions. Drummond portrayed Simpson as having “hunted down his victims,” emphasizing the need for accountability for such heinous crimes.
As the Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board prepares to review Simpson’s case, the potential for clemency hangs in the balance, with Governor Kevin Stitt ultimately holding the power to decide Simpson’s fate. The hearing is scheduled for January 14, with Simpson’s execution currently set for February 12.
Supporters hope that state leaders will consider the long-term effects of trauma and mental health in their decisions, advocating for a system that better accounts for these issues in capital cases. The outcome remains uncertain as the clock ticks down to the clemency hearing, emphasizing the complex intersection of justice and mental health in the legal system.