7/13/09 - Paul Powell granted stay of execution by the US Supreme Court

The execution of Paul Powell has been stayed by the U.S. Supreme Court.
 
We are relieved that the U.S. Supreme Court has decided to stay the execution and will consider hearing Powell’s claim that he was unconstitutionally tried twice for the murder of Stacie Reed.  The constitutional rights of individuals must always be protected and this is greatly heightened in death penalty cases when it is truly a matter of life or death. 
 
Additionally, there was a major prejudicial error in Powell’s case where the capital sentencing jury considered false evidence provided by the prosecution that Powell had twice previously been convicted of capital murder.
 
The stay will remain in effect until at least September 29th when the Court will reconvene.  They can decide to hear Powell’s claim, not hear the case, or do nothing.  The stay of execution would be continued if the Court decides to hear his claim.  
 
 
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