Today, the day after Memorial Day, Gov. DeSantis signed a death warrant for U.S. Marine Corps veteran Dusty Ray Spencer. Dusty was sentenced to death for the 1992 murder of his wife, Karen Spencer, by a 7-5 jury vote. If Dusty’s crime were to have occurred today, he wouldn’t have received the death penalty.
We will have more to say about Dusty and his case in the days ahead. For now, please take action for Dusty by signing his petition and sharing FADP’s posts on Facebook and Instagram.
If you know Dusty, whether as a penpal, friend, or something else, we’d love to hear from you. Just reply to this email.
Andrew Lukehart Scheduled for Execution on June 2
Florida’s next execution is just one week away. Andrew Lukehart is scheduled for execution next Tuesday at 6 pm. Here are the things you need to know about Andy, and ways you can take action:
- Andy was sentenced to death by a jury vote of 9-3. In every other state in the country, this would have resulted in a life sentence.
- Jurors’ decision to spare Andy’s life revolved around his extensive history of childhood trauma, intellectual capability, and brain damage.
- In prison, Andy has become a thoughtful and reflective man who cares for others and studies his Catholic faith. While incarcerated, he poses no danger to society.
We’ve heard from many of you who know Andy and care for him deeply. We always want to hear your stories and better understand the humanity of the men the State of Florida kills in our names, so please reach out to
[email protected].
We reject the idea that executions are inevitable. Nothing requires the State of Florida to respond to violence with more violence. Our leaders still have a choice.
There is courage in choosing mercy. There is strength in recognizing that another death will not heal what has already been broken. Real leadership means investing in the things that actually prevent violence in the first place: mental health care, trauma intervention, stable communities, and support for victims’ families.
Florida can continue down this path of endless executions, or it can choose a future rooted in humanity, prevention, and dignity. We encourage our leaders to choose life.
Onward.