Marcellus “Khaliifah” Williams was executed in Missouri for the 1998 murder of former police reporter Lisha Gayle, despite his claims of innocence and prosecutors supporting his innocence. Despite calls for his life to be spared from the prosecutor in the case and Gayle’s family, Williams was pronounced dead following a lethal injection. Williams’ attorney called the execution a “grotesque exercise of state power,” highlighting prosecutors’ efforts to save his life.
Williams, who had no DNA evidence connecting him to the crime, was convicted in 2001 and sentenced to death. His last meal included chicken wings, tater tots, and his last words were, “All praise be to Allah in every situation.” Even though there were previous attempts to halt his execution for further DNA testing and evidence mishandling, ultimately, three liberal justices of the U.S. Supreme Court called for a stay that was denied.
The execution of Williams has drawn criticism from religious leaders, government leaders, and national advocacy groups such as the NAACP and Black Lives Matter. Missouri Congresswoman Cori Bush condemned Governor Mike Parson’s decision, saying it was a demonstration of the failure of the justice system. Williams’ attorney described him as a “kind and thoughtful man” who sought to move beyond wrongful execution fears through faith.
Before Williams’ execution, there were nine people on death row in Missouri, and more back-to-back executions are expected in other states. The case of Marcellus Williams highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the death penalty, innocence claims, and the criminal justice system’s integrity.
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