Oklahoma Halts Execution, Spares Death Row Inmate Just Hours Beforehand
The state of Oklahoma recently halted the execution of Tremane Wood, just hours before it was set to occur. Governor Kevin Stitt granted clemency, commuting Wood’s death sentence to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. This decision took place on the same day Wood was scheduled for lethal injection.
Background of the Case
Tremane Wood, 46, was convicted of first-degree murder for his role in the stabbing death of farmworker Ronnie Wipf during a robbery in 2001. He received his death sentence in 2004. Wood’s execution was met with significant opposition from Wipf’s family, who expressed their desire for mercy through the state’s parole board.
Governor’s Decision on Clemency
Governor Stitt announced his decision following a thorough review, stating, “After a thorough review of the facts and prayerful consideration, I have chosen to accept the Pardon and Parole Board’s recommendation.” This clemency marks the second instance of Governor Stitt granting mercy to a death row inmate since his election in 2019.
Details of the Crime
- Victim: Ronnie Wipf
- Crime Date: New Year’s Eve, 2001
- Convicted: Tremane Wood (2004)
- Co-Defendant: Zjaiton Wood (pleaded guilty, died in prison 2019)
Legal Representation and Appeal
Wood’s legal team argues that his trial was unjust. They highlighted issues with his attorney at the time, who had a history of drug and alcohol addiction. This attorney, John Barry Albert, had his law license briefly suspended in 2006 for similar issues.
Parole Board Recommendation
Earlier this month, the parole board voted 3-2 in favor of clemency instead of execution. Support for this recommendation came from Wipf’s family and a surviving victim of the robbery, Arnold Kleinsasser. Governor Stitt commended their willingness to forgive, calling them examples of Christian compassion.
Reactions to the Clemency
Wood’s attorney, Amanda Bass Castro-Alves, expressed gratitude for the decision, stating it respects the wishes of Wipf’s family. She emphasized that the ruling could bring peace to those affected by the crime.
However, Oklahoma’s Attorney General Gentner Drummond voiced his disappointment. He reaffirmed his commitment to keeping Wood incarcerated to protect the public.
Current Status of Executions in Oklahoma
This year, Oklahoma has executed two inmates, while four were executed in 2024. The state continues to face scrutiny over its handling of capital punishment cases, including the implications of Clemency decisions like the one made for Tremane Wood.
