Gov. Kevin Stitt is planning to wait on making a final decision in the case of convicted murderer Julius Jones.
In a news release, Stitt announced Tuesday he will not make a final decision regarding Jones' case until after his clemency hearing before the Pardon and Parole Board.
"I am not accepting the Pardon and Parole Board’s recommendation to commute the sentence of Julius Jones because a clemency hearing, not a commutation hearing, is the appropriate venue for our state to consider death row cases," said Stitt.
“Clemency hearings are more intensive and thorough than a commutation hearing and include the option for the inmate to speak publicly before the Pardon and Parole Board as well as the victim’s family and attorneys from both sides."
A clemency hearing for Jones is set for Oct. 26.
In accordance with state law, death row inmates are provided clemency hearings at least 21 days prior to their execution date.
Jones, 41, is facing execution for the 1999 murder of Edmond businessman Paul Howell.
Jones has been scheduled for execution on Nov. 18.
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