STARKE, Fla. Today at 6 p.m., the State of Florida plans to execute Samuel “Sammy” Lee Smithers, a 72-year-old man who is showing signs of dementia and severe cognitive decline. If carried out, this would be the 14th execution of the year — both the most in Florida’s history and the most of any state in 2025.
Mr. Smithers was sentenced to death for the 1996 murders of Christie Cowan and Denise Roach. He has lived on death row for nearly 30 years, during which time his mental and physical health have significantly deteriorated. His case highlights the urgent need for reform in Florida’s costly capital punishment system, which is currently the most expansive in the nation.
Ahead of the scheduled execution, advocates will deliver nearly 5,000 petition signatures to Governor Ron DeSantis’ office in Tallahassee, urging him to commute Mr. Smithers’ death sentence to life without parole, a severe punishment that would ensure accountability without perpetuating violence.
At 5 p.m., Floridians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty (FADP) and community members will gather across from Florida State Prison for a vigil and peaceful demonstration. Participants should gather in the designated area across the highway from Florida State Prison (23916 NW 83rd Ave., Raiford, FL 32026). All are welcome to join in solidarity.