High Court Denies Crips Co-Founder's Death Row Appeal

[LinasK]

POSTED: 10:14 am PDT October 11, 2005
UPDATED: 10:34 pm PDT October 11, 2005


WASHINGTON -- The Supreme Court refused Tuesday to take the case of California death row inmate Stanley "Tookie" Williams, a founder of the Crips street gang whose later work for peace won him Nobel Peace Prize nominations.Williams, who has been praised for his children's books and efforts to curtail youth gang violence, likely will be executed in December if Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger does not grant clemency. The 51-year-old former gang member claims Los Angeles County prosecutors violated his rights when they dismissed all potential black jurors.

Williams, who claims he is innocent, is in line to be one of three California condemned inmates to be executed within months. He was condemned for killing four people in 1981 and claims jailhouse informants fabricated testimony that he confessed to the murders.Schwarzenegger has rejected clemency for the first two condemned men asking to commute their sentences to life without parole. In Schwarzenegger's latest rejection in January, he said an inmate's model behavior in prison was not enough to sway him to grant mercy. That inmate, Donald Beardslee, was executed days later.

EDITED BY DP DUE TO COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT

more at link:http://www.ktvu.com/news/5084728/detail.html

[SanQuentinvisitor]

Here's another article... It looks like Stanley will be executed on December 13th if all goes well and Swartz doesn't step in..

http://www.indybay.org/archives/archive_by_id.php?id=3669&category_id=12
This man has had this coming for 20 years, I'm afraid. To claim that blacks were removed from his jury is not an argument against guilt. He DID murder 4 people in cold blood, with special circumstances, that made him eligible for the death penalty. Black jurors 'might' have felt differently about the sentence, but there's no guarentee of that. This man is assuming that all Blacks feel some sense of obligation to 'save' other blacks from prosecution. In fact, I would venture a guess that this killer is quite an embarrassment and thorn in the side of the Black culture, as he is responsible for so many deaths of young black men in the US......... Shame on him and I for one, completely support this man being executed and hope the Governor feels the same.

[SadieMae]

I agree with you SQV. He may be locked up, but what he started continues on even though he says he's redeemed himself. I'm sick of hearing about innocent men, women and children killed by gang bullets. If I were on the jury (I'm black) I would have voted for the death penalty. And I'm sick of hearing black defendants saying that all white juries are skewed against them. Once I have the facts, that's what my decision is based on according to the law. It seems prosecutors would put minorities on all capital cases to avoid this claim later. The way I look at it, if people like him are off the streets, my kids are a little safer out there.

[Jeana (DP)]

That's the stupidest argument I've ever read. Black people don't want dangerous gang members out on the streets any more than people of any other color. The mere fact that some black defendants even raise this issue is a slap in the face to every law abiding black citizen. They're a blot on society and if they do the crimes, then they have to be punished. I don't know why they would think that people of their own race, who have been held down long enough by gang members, should rise up and try to save their lives.

[SanQuentinvisitor]

I agree with you SQV. He may be locked up, but what he started continues on even though he says he's redeemed himself. I'm sick of hearing about innocent men, women and children killed by gang bullets. If I were on the jury (I'm black) I would have voted for the death penalty. And I'm sick of hearing black defendants saying that all white juries are skewed against them. Once I have the facts, that's what my decision is based on according to the law. It seems prosecutors would put minorities on all capital cases to avoid this claim later. The way I look at it, if people like him are off the streets, my kids are a little safer out there.Yes, it's insulting for this 'man' to attempt to ride on the backs of those who fought so hard to gain the freedom and respect they so deserve. He is a blemish to that fight and stands for nothing but hate and destruction.
It's interesting that when these men finally face their fate, they find all kinds of reasons to say the system is flawed or racist. Where was his mercy when he held that hard working family hostage for a lousy 75.00 bucks only to shoot them dead while they begged for their lives. Or for the man who was just working his shift trying to make his own way in this world...... There was none, I'm afraid. Now there must be no mercy for him.

I can say from experience that I've seen this man for the last 18 + years and he is no where near the saint he portrays to his friends in Hollywood. He is as involved in the Crips today as he ever was.....There is no walking away, ever. He feels safe playing this hand because for the past 10 years, he's been in A-seg......no one could get near him. He wrote those books while in isolation...... actually, he had someone else write them while he gave them material. BUT, it's a known fact by those in prison, that Tookie has ordered hits right from his cell........

Anyway, the ACLU and the NAACP should put their efforts into those who are well deserving........Namely all those young vulnerable men and women who still stand a chance at being contributors to this world rather then destroyers..... ;)

Stanely is a throwaway and should be forgotten, period.

[SadieMae]

Yes, it's insulting for this 'man' to attempt to ride on the backs of those who fought so hard to gain the freedom and respect they so deserve. He is a blemish to that fight and stands for nothing but hate and destruction.
It's interesting that when these men finally face their fate, they find all kinds of reasons to say the system is flawed or racist. Where was his mercy when he held that hard working family hostage for a lousy 75.00 bucks only to shoot them dead while they begged for their lives. Or for the man who was just working his shift trying to make his own way in this world...... There was none, I'm afraid. Now there must be no mercy for him.

I can say from experience that I've seen this man for the last 18 + years and he is no where near the saint he portrays to his friends in Hollywood. He is as involved in the Crips today as he ever was.....There is no walking away, ever. He feels safe playing this hand because for the past 10 years, he's been in A-seg......no one could get near him. He wrote those books while in isolation...... actually, he had someone else write them while he gave them material. BUT, it's a known fact by those in prison, that Tookie has ordered hits right from his cell........

Anyway, the ACLU and the NAACP should put their efforts into those who are well deserving........Namely all those young vulnerable men and women who still stand a chance at being contributors to this world rather then destroyers..... ;)

Stanely is a throwaway and should be forgotten, period.
100% agree with ya. It is insulting to me when someone like him thinks I'm going to give him a break just because he's black. No sympathy for him here. I worked for everything I've got and he could have too. Instead he led so many that had the potential to be law abiding contributing members of our society to be thugs and gangstas. Very saddening he ruined so many young people's lives along with taking lives.

[Tricia]

Being that I only know what I have seen in the media about this guy I must say this thread is an eye-opener.

From the way he is portrayed he is now a saint and should be spared so he can help others.

I say it's 50/50 that Arnold steps in. He might have a lot of pressure on him to do so.

Does anyone know how the victim's families feel about this guy now?

[SadieMae]

Being that I only know what I have seen in the media about this guy I must say this thread is an eye-opener.

From the way he is portrayed he is now a saint and should be spared so he can help others.

I say it's 50/50 that Arnold steps in. He might have a lot of pressure on him to do so.

Does anyone know how the victim's families feel about this guy now?
I think he's like a saint now because he doesn't want to die. He could have had the same saintly behavior and tried to help others before he started the crips. His change of heart means nothing to me. He wasn't some juvenile. He got caught and now he has to pay up. If one of his victims were a member of my family and they let him live, it's a slap in my face. This week in my Texas town about 8 high schoolers and an an adult were charged with assault for a
"crips initiation". JMO

[LinasK]

POSTED: 10:19 am PDT October 24, 2005
UPDATED: 3:31 pm PDT October 24, 2005


LOS ANGELES -- A judge signed a death warrant Monday for convicted killer and Crips co-founder Stanley "Tookie" Williams, rejecting his attorneys' request for a nine-day delay in his execution date.

Williams is scheduled to die Dec. 13 at San Quentin prison for four murders committed in 1979.His lawyers asked that the date be set for Dec. 22 so they would have more time to ask Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger for clemency.

"This case has taken over 24 years to get to this point," Superior Court Judge William R. Pounders said. "That is a long delay in itself and I would hate to add to that delay."Williams, 51, was sentenced to death in 1981 for fatally shooting Albert Owens, a Whittier convenience store worker. He also was convicted of killing two Los Angeles motel owners and their daughter with a shotgun during a robbery.

Williams has maintained his innocence.

The Dec. 13 execution date means attorneys have until Nov. 8 to submit the clemency request to the governor. The judge said Williams' lawyers could ask the governor for more time to tell him about the good work Williams has done since renouncing his gang past.

Lora Owens, Albert Owen's stepmother, said Williams does not deserve clemency."I didn't convict the man and I didn't put a death sentence on him, but I want justice for Albert to be done. I will not let it go," Lora Owens said in a recent telephone interview. more at link:http://www.ktvu.com/news/5161452/detail.html

[pacific]

Does anyone know how the victim's families feel about this guy now?
Here is an excerpt, with the full article located at:
http://www.contracostatimes.com/mld/cctimes/12985174.htm

Williams, 51, was sentenced to death in 1981 for fatally shooting Albert Owens, a Whittier convenience store worker. He also was convicted of killing two Los Angeles motel owners and their daughter with a shotgun during a robbery.

Williams has maintained his innocence.

The Dec. 13 execution date means attorneys have until Nov. 8 to submit the clemency request to the governor. The judge said Williams' lawyers could ask the governor for more time to tell him about the good work Williams has done since renouncing his gang past.

Lora Owens, Albert Owen's stepmother, said Williams does not deserve clemency.

"I didn't convict the man and I didn't put a death sentence on him, but I want justice for Albert to be done. I will not let it go," Lora Owens said in a recent telephone interview.

==========

On this same page at the link above, there is a poll:
Should Gov. Schwarzenegger grant Stanley "Tookie" Williams clemency?

Response: Yes 38%
No 62%

[Jeana (DP)]

From what I've heard Schwarzenegger say about the death penalty, I don't think there's a chance in hell he'll grant clemency in this case. If this isn't an inmate ripe for the death penalty, they need to take it off the books. The sheer terror, murder, rape, and destruction caused by the group that this man founded, and the murderers he's personally responsible for erase the warm fuzzy feeling that may have been had because this guy wrote some childrens books.

[LinasK]

POSTED: 6:59 am PST November 17, 2005


SAN QUENTIN -- As the battle over whether to spare the life of Crips co-founder and convicted murderer Stanley Tookie Williams grows, prison officials have initiated an unusual counterattack against a man who supporters believe has turned his life around behind bars.


Before a celebrity-led effort begins to save him from a Dec. 13 execution, the people who have watched over Williams for two dozen years have questioned whether he's truly redeemed, claiming he's still calling the shots from death row for the Crips, one of the nation's most notorious gangs.The Corrections Department earlier this month posted a news release on its Web site about the upcoming execution. It gave biographical information about Williams, as well as a narrative about his crimes. In 1979, Williams shot and killed four people during two robberies in Los Angeles.


"By 1994, having firmly entrenched himself as the leader of the Crips at San Quentin, he wielded his power as his lieutenants and other minions were dispatched to carry out his objectives," according to the release.The paragraph was removed a day after it was posted following a call from The Associated Press, but a San Quentin spokesman, speaking on behalf of the corrections agency, went even further in a subsequent interview.


"When you look at the totality of what has been occurring that leads me to seriously question this man of peace," said Vernell Crittendon, who has worked at the prison nearly 30 years and regularly interacts with Williams. Crittendon said he felt obligated to correct the inmate's public image. "A con always will say one thing to you while the whole time he has another agenda. I'm concerned that possibly this marketing that's going on ... leads the public to hear the words, but not to see that sleight of hand."


Williams, 51, has gained international acclaim for writing children's books about the dangers of gang life. He's received several Nobel Prize nominations and he's attracted a cadre of celebrity supporters including actor Jamie Foxx, who played Williams in a television movie, actor-activist Mike Farrell and rapper Snoop Dogg, who's scheduled to appear at a rally Saturday outside the prison.

Crittendon further cited Williams' refusal to formally renounce his gang membership, his willingness to share an exercise yard with Crips, his unusually large prison bank account and his younger son's firm entrenchment as a Crips member imprisoned for murder.Stanley Williams Jr., 30, is currently serving a 16-year sentence for second-degree murder. He's an active Crips member and remains housed in administrative segregation, Crittendon said. more at link:http://www.ktvu.com/news/5346344/detail.html

[Tod]

To paraphrase the words of Lora Owens (stepmother of Albert Owens), Tookie's had 26 appeals on death row. He didn't give Albert 26 seconds to live. End the coddling and administer the justice that's long overdue (my words).

[PrayersForMaura]

SNOOP DOGG BEGS SCHWARZENEGGER FOR CLEMENCY

LATEST: Rapper SNOOP DOGG has taken his clemency plea for gang leader STANLEY 'TOOKIE' WILLIAMS to California Governor ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER.

The DROP IT LIKE IT'S HOT hitmaker joined protestors outside San Quentin State Prison in California, where Williams is serving time on death row, on Saturday (19NOV05) and made a public plea to Schwarzenegger to grant his friend a stay of execution.

The rap star, real name CALVIN BROADUS, told reporters that the former Crips gang leader, who was imprisoned in 1979 for the murder of four people during two Los Angeles robberies, has inspired him to lead a better life - and he wants Schwarzenegger to think long and hard before agreeing to end his friend's life.

Snoop said, "He inspired me to want to do something positive with my life. There is no reason on earth to kill him (Williams), and there is every reason to keep him alive."

To help the cause, Snoop has recorded a new tune, REAL SOON, which he has dedicated to Williams, who has been nominated for Nobel Peace Prizes for his teachings and writing.

Williams is scheduled to be put to death on 13 December (05).
http://www.contactmusic.com/new/xmlfeed.nsf/mndwebpages/snoop%20dogg%20begs%20schwarzenegger%20for%20cleme ncy

[PrayersForMaura]

I wonder if Arnold's life is in jeopardy based on his call on this subject?

You know how gang members can make hits where and when they want.

[PrayersForMaura]

SAN FRANCISCO - The California Supreme Court refused Wednesday to halt the scheduled execution of convicted killer Stanley Tookie Williams, the Crips gang founder who became an anti-gang activist while in prison and whose supporters claim has redeemed himself.

In a last-ditch legal move, defense attorneys petitioned the high court earlier this month, alleging shoddy forensic testing and other errors may have wrongly sent Williams to San Quentin State Prison, where he is scheduled die by injection Dec. 13.

Lawyers for Williams, author of a series of anti-gang books for children, wanted to re-exam ballistics evidence that showed his shotgun was used to kill three people during a 1979 motel robbery.

The defense claimed the forensic evidence was "junk science," but prosecutors said that allegation was "based upon innuendo, supposition and the patent bias of (Williams') purported expert."

"The extraordinary relief Williams sought is reserved for those cases which have legal merit," said Nathan Barankin, spokesman for Attorney General Bill Lockyer.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20051201/ap_on_re_us/williams_execution;_ylt=AogM.A8MJukJApAYxiDsCGqs0N UE;_ylu=X3oDMTA3MjBwMWtkBHNlYwM3MTg-

[Jeana (DP)]

SNOOP DOGG BEGS SCHWARZENEGGER FOR CLEMENCY

LATEST: Rapper SNOOP DOGG has taken his clemency plea for gang leader STANLEY 'TOOKIE' WILLIAMS to California Governor ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER.

The DROP IT LIKE IT'S HOT hitmaker joined protestors outside San Quentin State Prison in California, where Williams is serving time on death row, on Saturday (19NOV05) and made a public plea to Schwarzenegger to grant his friend a stay of execution.

The rap star, real name CALVIN BROADUS, told reporters that the former Crips gang leader, who was imprisoned in 1979 for the murder of four people during two Los Angeles robberies, has inspired him to lead a better life - and he wants Schwarzenegger to think long and hard before agreeing to end his friend's life.

Snoop said, "He inspired me to want to do something positive with my life. There is no reason on earth to kill him (Williams), and there is every reason to keep him alive."

To help the cause, Snoop has recorded a new tune, REAL SOON, which he has dedicated to Williams, who has been nominated for Nobel Peace Prizes for his teachings and writing.

Williams is scheduled to be put to death on 13 December (05).
http://www.contactmusic.com/new/xmlfeed.nsf/mndwebpages/snoop%20dogg%20begs%20schwarzenegger%20for%20cleme ncy









Snoop Dog may be a rich rapper, but he also glorifies raping of women, drug and alcohol abuse and the "thug" life in general. So, while he may think that this "Crip" did the world a big favor by exposing all of us to "Snoop Dog," some peole may not think the same. Certainly its no reason to erase his record.

[JBean]

Snoop Dog may be a rich rapper, but he also glorifies raping of women, drug and alcohol abuse and the "thug" life in general. So, while he may think that this "Crip" did the world a big favor by exposing all of us to "Snoop Dog," some peole may not think the same. Certainly its no reason to erase his record.FWIW
Snoop is pretty big around here , in SoCal,right now with his youth football team. A lot of us see him regularly on the field and at all the games.
I only mention this because he has added to his credibility over the past 2 or three years and some may be more inclined to listen to what he has to say these days.

[Details]

"nominated for a nobel prize" - that seems to have become a very useless, almost negative honor. The nomination process is so open that it's being used to nominate people just so they can use the title, not because they've really done anything to deserve it.

Doesn't sound like he's got any real remorse at all, other than that he got caught and is going to die for it.

[Jeana (DP)]

FWIW
Snoop is pretty big around here , in SoCal,right now with his youth football team. A lot of us see him regularly on the field and at all the games.
I only mention this because he has added to his credibility over the past 2 or three years and some may be more inclined to listen to what he has to say these days.

Hopefully Governor Schwarzenegger won't be one of them.

[JBean]

"nominated for a nobel prize" - that seems to have become a very useless, almost negative honor. The nomination process is so open that it's being used to nominate people just so they can use the title, not because they've really done anything to deserve it.

Doesn't sound like he's got any real remorse at all, other than that he got caught and is going to die for it.Bill Handel a DJ on KFI got himself nominated today to prove that very point.

[JBean]

Hopefully Governor Schwarzenegger won't be one of them.They would have to come up with something pretty substantial for Arnold to do anything. I can almost guarantee thre will be no change based on the information available right now. Now if they came up with some concrete wrong doing related to the trial that would be another story.

[cinsbythesea]

They would have to come up with something pretty substantial for Arnold to do anything. I can almost guarantee thre will be no change based on the information available right now. Now if they came up with some concrete wrong doing related to the trial that would be another story.

I agree totally. Add in the fact that San Quentin officials have actually taken the (I think) unprecedented measure of putting their 2 cents in about his associating with Crips in the exercise yard, no remorse, etc. Considering they are the ones that have been dealing with him 24/7 for the past 20+ years I would think there would be a lot of credibility in what they are saying. I didn't vote for Ahnold and don't like most of what he's doing but I must say I do sympathize with the decision he must make in this. IMO, I think he'll not grant the clemency.

[Jeana (DP)]

I agree totally. Add in the fact that San Quentin officials have actually taken the (I think) unprecedented measure of putting their 2 cents in about his associating with Crips in the exercise yard, no remorse, etc. Considering they are the ones that have been dealing with him 24/7 for the past 20+ years I would think there would be a lot of credibility in what they are saying. I didn't vote for Ahnold and don't like most of what he's doing but I must say I do sympathize with the decision he must make in this. IMO, I think he'll not grant the clemency.


I agree with both of you. The chances of this thug having the sentence overturned is very very remote. Schwarzenegger, in his campaign, said he wouldn't be soft on crime and supports the death penalty. So, hard to say you support something and then stop it. This prisoner may have fooled a lot of people, and there are a lot of people on board who just don't agree with the death penalty. In the end, I don't think any of that will matter.

[concernedperson]

It seems that Vernell Crittendon isn't happy with old Tookie either. He just talked about assault of staff members, inappropriate sexual behavior and, of course the association with Crips members. So, this kinda makes the children's books less importent if it is ony for self-enhancement. He was on Catherine Crier's show.

[William N]

Nancy Grace discussed this story last night. She really ripped into Williams and his supporters. Nancy was in her prosecutor mode.

[JBean]

I agree with both of you. The chances of this thug having the sentence overturned is very very remote. Schwarzenegger, in his campaign, said he wouldn't be soft on crime and supports the death penalty. So, hard to say you support something and then stop it. This prisoner may have fooled a lot of people, and there are a lot of people on board who just don't agree with the death penalty. In the end, I don't think any of that will matter.KFI reported yesterday that when Tookie was found guilty after his trial, he turned to the members of the jury and mouthed:
I am going to get each and every one of you M****F***ers.

[PrayersForMaura]

'Tookie Must Die' -- Why Many Blacks Oppose Clemency for Williams

Editor's Note: It's a myth that a large majority of blacks oppose the death penalty, detest police and as jurors won't vote to convict a fellow black. In fact, writes PNS contributing editor Earl Ofari Hutchinson, some of the loudest voices calling for the execution of Stanley "Tookie" Williams come from black communities. Hutchinson is author of "The Crisis of Black and Black."
Video: Pro-Tookie rally (http://news.newamericamedia.org/news/view_article.html?article_id=19d6b51eef0765ce23e57 1ea896c06f9)at San Quentin prison; screening (http://news.newamericamedia.org/news/view_article.html?article_id=52595a7bd5e3547e8fadc fc85bf57b1c) of a movie on his life story.

LOS ANGELES--The small crowd of clergy, community activists and death penalty opponents that gathered in front of the Los Angeles courthouse recently was no different than other groups that for weeks have kept up the drum beat for California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger to grant Stanley "Tookie" Williams clemency.

There was one very loud exception. A young African-American man shouted that Williams was a thug and a murderer and should die. He was not an agitator or a crank. He represented a body of pro-death penalty sentiment among blacks that has seldom been publicly heard during the great Tookie debate.

I was not surprised when I heard this young man's words, for there are many blacks like him who want Williams dead. The instant I went to bat in my columns for clemency for Williams and against the death penalty in general, the e-mails and comments I got flew hot and heavy. Black critics bitterly reviled me for advocating clemency. They were adamant that Williams must pay for his crimes, and for the murder and mayhem the Crips gang, which he helped found, has unleashed on impoverished black communities.

Their hardened attitude toward Williams flew in the face of conventional wisdom that says that blacks are passionate opponents of the death penalty. They aren't.

During the past decade, even as more whites have said they are deeply ambivalent about the death penalty or oppose it, many blacks continue to say that murderers, even black ones, must pay with their lives. A Harris Interactive poll in August 2001 found that nearly half of black respondents supported capital punishment. Three years later, a Gallup Poll found that black support for the death penalty still hovered at close to 50 percent.

http://news.pacificnews.org/news/view_article.html?article_id=0272f9852637179479b7f a874a10d7aa

[Jeana (DP)]

I don't think that prison reformation should be considered in granting clemency for murderers. In my opinion, that would be akin to someone who is arrested for rape/kidnapping, released on bail awaiting trial for a couple of years and finds Jesus! Should that person's rape/kidnapping charge be thrown out simply because in that period of time between the crime and the punishment that person repents? In my opinion, no. A punishment is handed down for a crime. The crime didn't change, so why should the punishment?

[winelover]

This save Tookie campaign confounds me. The man is a cold blooded killer who is conning people.

I was reading the DA's response to clemency, in it a death certificate of a juror AND a sworn affidavit from another juror that one of the jurors was black (he is now dead) is presented.

I then go to Tookie's site (bleh, I need a shower) and they link to the ninth circuit dissent on the jury race issue (this document is dated before the Nov DA response to clemency).

Even the Save Tookie site admits there were non whites on the jury, a latino and a filipino.

Has anybody read the ninth cirucit dissent and understand if they are even saying the jury was all white? I think this is what the Tookie people want us to think they are.

I am trying to slog through it, but I am no lawyer so it is slow going. ;)

[Jeana (DP)]

This save Tookie campaign confounds me. The man is a cold blooded killer who is conning people.

I was reading the DA's response to clemency, in it a death certificate of a juror AND a sworn affidavit from another juror that one of the jurors was black (he is now dead) is presented.

I then go to Tookie's site (bleh, I need a shower) and they link to the ninth circuit dissent on the jury race issue (this document is dated before the Nov DA response to clemency).

Even the Save Tookie site admits there were non whites on the jury, a latino and a filipino.

Has anybody read the ninth cirucit dissent and understand if they are even saying the jury was all white? I think this is what the Tookie people want us to think they are.

I am trying to slog through it, but I am no lawyer so it is slow going. ;)

I haven't read it, but I've heard about it. There were apparently three minorities on the jury. I'm not sure how many minorities it takes to make up a "fair" jury for a black defendant, but its a non-issue in this case. These so-called supporters seem to be under the mistaken belief that a jury must be made up by one's "peers." That's simply not the case. The jury must be made up of unpartial individuals. That's all that we are guaranteed.

[Jeana (DP)]

Tookie's team is apparently going to have his hearing tomorrow before Schwarzenegger. They probably won't have an answer tomorrow, he'll take it under advisement, but I'm 99.99999% sure that there's no way Schwarzenegger will grant clemency. Arnold wants to be re-elected. Some California cities have been literally destroyed by gangs and gang culture. People are afraid to leave their homes at night and the justice system in this culture is at a dead stop. People simply won't testify against them. For a governor wanting re-election to NOT execute someone like Tookie is career suicide.

[Sleuth]

The Ninth Circuit court of Appeals is THE SINGLE MOST overturned court in the U.S. The rulings they hand down are OVERTURNED by the U.S. Supreme Court, for being faulty and/or unconstitutional, more than any other court in the land. Because their rulings are so "out there" most of the time, they have earned the nickname, "The Ninth CIRCUS court of appeals". They are a joke. So, if Tookie is hoping to save his butt on some ruling of the ninth circuit, he is really desperate.

Nice try Tookie and friends, but the clock is running......

[winelover]

So, if Tookie is hoping to save his butt on some ruling of the ninth circuit, he is really desperate.

Nice try Tookie and friends, but the clock is running...... It is even better than that, the ninth circuit ruled AGAINST him. (I think it was 13-9). The Tookie groupies are using the dissent to try and sway people.

:laugh:

[concernedperson]

Looking like Tookie's Toast!

[scandi]

Tough Titty Tookie! Toots. LOL :D

Scandi

[LinasK]

POSTED: 3:55 pm PST December 6, 2005
UPDATED: 5:51 pm PST December 6, 2005


SACRAMENTO -- Calling Stanley Tookie Williams a secret weapon to help young black men stay out of gangs, the national leader of the NAACP traveled across California on Tuesday rallying support for the convicted murderer set for execution next week.

At a stop in Sacramento, Bruce Gordon, president and chief executive of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, delivered signed petitions from more than 56,000 people to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's office, urging the governor to grant Williams clemency.Gordon said Schwarzenegger turned down his invitation to meet. more at link:http://www.ktvu.com/news/5479527/detail.html

[Schmerty_Jones]

I hope this will be over on the 13th. This criminal has manipulated all the agencies & they will lose credibility & the ability to do good for anyone. His just punishment for taking 4 lives should be carried out . 4 lives that he cannot replace & that he shows no remore for taking. This sentence must be carried out.It is the only Justice.

[LinasK]

I hope this will be over on the 13th. This criminal has manipulated all the agencies & they will lose credibility & the ability to do good for anyone. His just punishment for taking 4 lives should be carried out . 4 lives that he cannot replace & that he shows no remore for taking. This sentence must be carried out.It is the only Justice.
Agreed! He's manipulating people that he's renounced gangs, and he probably didn't even write the children's books himself. So what? Bottom line is that he cold-bloodedly murdered 4 people with no remorse! He sounds just like that Ice pick murderer Carla somebody that they executed in Texas. She wanted to be saved because she found God. Too bad she wasn't as merciful on her victims.:boohoo: :boohoo: :boohoo: I hope Schwarzennger isn't so stupid as to fall for these clemency pleas...

[PrayersForMaura]

Snoop Dogg begs for Schwarzengger's mercy

RAPPER Snoop Dogg is calling on Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to "do the right thing" and grant a convicted multi-murderer clemency.
...



"He is reaching out to people," Dogg said.

Dogg refused to speculate on the reaction on US streets if Williams is executed as planned on December 13.

"My message to the governor is you got to do the right thing," Dogg said before leaving in a black van with tinted windows. "I know he is up against the wall right now. But, Williams is a great example, a great tool."


More: http://www.heraldsun.news.com.au/common/story_page/0,5478,17505574%5e2902,00.html

[JBean]

well, the clemency hearing just ended with Arnold.

No one is talking though...yet.

[cinsbythesea]

According to the news, Arnold won't be making his decision public until between Friday and Monday. Both sides sure must have chosen their words carefully-30 minutes each to sum up 26 years in prison and/or a man's life. I bet Arnold is not liking his job too much right about now! What a decision to have to make.

[cinsbythesea]

I hope this will be over on the 13th. This criminal has manipulated all the agencies & they will lose credibility & the ability to do good for anyone. His just punishment for taking 4 lives should be carried out . 4 lives that he cannot replace & that he shows no remore for taking. This sentence must be carried out.It is the only Justice.


:clap: Well said Schmerty! Ditto to all of your words!

[winelover]

Agreed! He's manipulating people that he's renounced gangs, and he probably didn't even write the children's books himself.
He didn't.

He co-wrote them with Barbara Cottman Becnel.

How much effort does it take to write down some platitudes, give it to your co-author, especially when you are sitting on Death Row?

He hasn't done anything which would take personal courage, like "snitching" (his words!!) on the Crips. He'll still associate with them on the Yard. What is that?! Some role model he is.

The save tookie groupies disgust me.

SQV, if you are reading this thread, I read an article which said the Williams was in the North section. The one where the cream of the crop go. I wondered if you knew if the reporter got it wrong or do you know if they allow people whose execution is approaching a few months or relative peace in the quietest area of Death Row?

Article:

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2005/11/20/INGFUFHCFL56.DTL

[JBean]

Maybe it's posted here somewhere, but I hadn't heard this before. In the "Tookie Must Die" hour on KFI, they said that Tookie was on the Gong Show once. He was showing off his muscles with babes standing by him as his "talent". They said the gongers were too scared to gong him.

Just a litlle Tookie tidbit.

[pacific]

Here is an article about Mr. Williams' fine record on death row at San Quentin: http://crime.about.com/od/deathrow/a/tookie15.htm

:sick: Why it is that people want to "save" this lad, is beyond me... He most certainly appears to be one disgusting specimen of 'humanity'. Raw power, in the form of threats of death via gun-toting guards, seems to be the only 'language' this brute understands.

================

And here is info on his appeals:

History of Stanley 'Tookie' Williams' Appeals
Nov 29 2005

Procedural History and Appellate Review

To date, Stanley 'Tookie' Williams' case has received extensive legal scrutiny in both state and federal court. Since his conviction in 1981, Williams has pursued multiple appeals and habeas corpus petitions.
In each and every instance, in both state and federal court, his conviction has been affirmed as appropriate and just, according to the Los Angeles District Attorney's office.

Full article: http://crime.about.com/od/deathrow/a/tookie16.htm

24 years of appeals, reviews, and so on are not enough? Give me a break.

[DEPUTYDAWG]

According to the news, Arnold won't be making his decision public until between Friday and Monday. Both sides sure must have chosen their words carefully-30 minutes each to sum up 26 years in prison and/or a man's life. I bet Arnold is not liking his job too much right about now! What a decision to have to make.

Thanks for this - I was wondering why I wasn't finding the Gov's findings in the news! Wonder if it's delayed 'til the weekend to get LE on standby and civil disturbance teams on ready. And, no weekday commute traffic snarls, etc. Hmmm, just a thinking. ;)

[Tom'sGirl]

I'm so sick of hearing that he's been a model prisoner, yeah right!

Williams' Violent Acts on Death Row
http://crime.about.com/od/deathrow/a/tookie15.htm (http://crime.about.com/od/deathrow/a/tookie15.htm)

I'm also sick of hearing of the Nobel nomination thing..........so have thousands through the years including J. Stalin, A. Hitler & S. Hussein :doh:

I heard Chris Wallace this morning say that Took's book only has sold about 300 copies! It makes me sick that anyone on Death Row is afforded the right to write, co-write anything.

DR inmates should have no rights at all, not to the Internet, Mail, visitors or anything else that takes away from being isolated alone until they receive the punishment they were determined to receive.

California needs to do some serious house cleaning on Death Row, how many times do I, and the majority of my State have to vote in favor of it:banghead:

[Jack]

I then go to Tookie's site (bleh, I need a shower) ... ;)


LOL, Me too. But while I was there I used the link they had up to send the Governor an email about why I think he should be executed as planned.

[SadieMae]

Thanks for this - I was wondering why I wasn't finding the Gov's findings in the news! Wonder if it's delayed 'til the weekend to get LE on standby and civil disturbance teams on ready. And, no weekday commute traffic snarls, etc. Hmmm, just a thinking. ;)
I was thinking the same thing for the same reason. I don't think he's going to say anything until the last minute. Arnold already knows what his decision is, and I think he's not going to commute the sentence, (at least I hope not!).

[JBean]

They found a NEW witness! Where in the world has this witness been? It's about time he showed up.:innocent: <insert sarcastic smiley somewhere around here>:D

Tookie Williams' Supporters Say They Have New Witness; Emergency Request Seeks Stay of Execution

SAN FRANCISCO -- Supporters of former gang leader and convicted killer Stanley Tookie Williams made a last-minute pitch to save his life Sunday, saying they had a new witness, while prosecutors asked the California Supreme Court to allow his execution to go forward as scheduled early Tuesday

Deputy Attorney General Lisa Brault wrote to the court that Williams' request for a stay of execution "is without merit and is manifestly designed for delay."


http://orangecounty.cox.net/cci/newsnational/national?_mode=view&_state=maximized&view=article&id=D8EEF6AG0

[PrayersForMaura]

They found a NEW witness! Where in the world has this witness been? It's about time he showed up.:innocent:

Tookie Williams' Supporters Say They Have New Witness; Emergency Request Seeks Stay of Execution

SAN FRANCISCO -- Supporters of former gang leader and convicted killer Stanley Tookie Williams made a last-minute pitch to save his life Sunday, saying they had a new witness, while prosecutors asked the California Supreme Court to allow his execution to go forward as scheduled early Tuesday

Deputy Attorney General Lisa Brault wrote to the court that Williams' request for a stay of execution "is without merit and is manifestly designed for delay."


http://orangecounty.cox.net/cci/newsnational/national?_mode=view&_state=maximized&view=article&id=D8EEF6AG0
LOL I thought the same thing!! They are trying just about everything.
I am a tad bit scared to see what is going to happen as soon as the execution is over. I fear that some of his supporters are going to do something terrible.

[PrayersForMaura]

Justices decline to block Williams execution


Crips co-founder Stanley Tookie Williams lost another bid before the California Supreme Court when the justices unanimously ruled late Sunday not to reopen his case and block his Tuesday execution by lethal injection.

The high court ruled 6-0, and said the last-minute appeal lacked merit and was untimely as well, meaning Williams will be executed unless Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger grants clemency or an anticipated last-ditch federal appeal is successful. California's justice days ago also turned down a similar appeal from Williams, who is scheduled to be the 12th condemned inmate executed since state lawmakers reinstated the death penalty in 1977 after a brief hiatus.

State prosecutors implored the justices early Sunday to dismiss Williams' latest petition to block his Tuesday execution for murdering four people in 1979.

More: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2005/12/11/state/n202649S89.DTL&feed=rss.news

[SadieMae]

Likely story. :rolleyes: So where was this "witness" the past 26 years? It's over for Tookie.

[cinsbythesea]

They found a NEW witness! Where in the world has this witness been? It's about time he showed up.:innocent: <insert sarcastic smiley somewhere around here>:D

Tookie Williams' Supporters Say They Have New Witness; Emergency Request Seeks Stay of Execution

SAN FRANCISCO -- Supporters of former gang leader and convicted killer Stanley Tookie Williams made a last-minute pitch to save his life Sunday, saying they had a new witness, while prosecutors asked the California Supreme Court to allow his execution to go forward as scheduled early Tuesday

Deputy Attorney General Lisa Brault wrote to the court that Williams' request for a stay of execution "is without merit and is manifestly designed for delay."


http://orangecounty.cox.net/cci/newsnational/national?_mode=view&_state=maximized&view=article&id=D8EEF6AG0

I saw this on the news tonight--can we spell LAST DITCH EFFORT? I think Arnold has already made his decision and LE knows what it is so they can mobilize...I'll be amazed if he grants clemency...but then again, I figured the Michael Jackson jury would convict...

[JBean]

Justices decline to block Williams execution


Crips co-founder Stanley Tookie Williams lost another bid before the California Supreme Court when the justices unanimously ruled late Sunday not to reopen his case and block his Tuesday execution by lethal injection.

The high court ruled 6-0, and said the last-minute appeal lacked merit and was untimely as well, meaning Williams will be executed unless Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger grants clemency or an anticipated last-ditch federal appeal is successful. California's justice days ago also turned down a similar appeal from Williams, who is scheduled to be the 12th condemned inmate executed since state lawmakers reinstated the death penalty in 1977 after a brief hiatus.

State prosecutors implored the justices early Sunday to dismiss Williams' latest petition to block his Tuesday execution for murdering four people in 1979.

More: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2005/12/11/state/n202649S89.DTL&feed=rss.news
Cripes! That was fast! I guess they were waiting for it too:p They were prepared!

[PrayersForMaura]

Clock ticks down on Williams execution at San Quentin


SAN FRANCISCO (AP) -- No one paid much attention to Stanley Tookie Williams when he was on trial in 1981 for murdering four people.

Today, as the clock ticks down on his scheduled execution, the former Los Angeles gang leader is world famous as a Nobel Prize-nominated author, the subject of an award-winning movie and a cause celebre for celebrities and death penalty opponents.

The change in status has made Williams' upcoming execution California's highest-profile death penalty case in decades, producing feverish preparations Sunday throughout the state and at San Quentin State Prison, where the co-founder of the Crips was scheduled to die by lethal injection at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday.

In San Francisco, a team of defense lawyers appealed to the California Supreme Court for the second time in two weeks to call off the execution, while Sister Helen Prejean, the inspiration for the film "Dead Man Walking," added her voice to the chorus calling on Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger to spare Williams' life.

"They are working out of the same moral framework that a gang does," said Prejean, a nun who ministers to death row inmates and was in town to accept an award from the American Civil Liberties Union.

At San Quentin, home to the most populated death row in the nation, a team of guards watched Williams for unusual behavior and recorded his activities every 15 minutes. The death chamber where as many as 50 people are allowed to witness executions was cleaned and stocked with fresh supplies of medical tape, syringes and the chemicals that would paralyze Williams and stop his heart.

The California Highway Patrol readied security measures for outside the prison, where hundreds of people were expected to rally Monday night. Aides to Schwarzenegger, meanwhile, announced that the governor wasn't yet ready to respond to Williams' request for clemency.

At least publicly, the person least occupied with his fate seemed to be Williams himself. He has said he doesn't plan to take the prison up on its offer of a last meal, a minister or spaces on the witness list for his friends or family. While he wants to live, he's prepared to die, Williams said.

"Me fearing what I'm facing, what possible good is it going to do for me? How is that going to benefit me?" Williams said during a recent interview with The Associated Press. "If it's my time to be executed, what's all the ranting and raving going to do?"

More: http://www.nctimes.com/articles/2005/12/12/news/state/121105193212.txt

[SadieMae]

Wow. Cali has only executed 12 since 1977? I checked the Texas stats and we're at 355 since 1982. It's almost like what's the point of giving the death penalty in CA. Somethings not right with the DP there. :confused:

We did double that number in one year.
http://www.tdcj.state.tx.us/stat/annual.htm

[JBean]

Wow. Cali has only executed 12 since 1977? I checked the Texas stats and we're at 355 since 1982. It's almost like what's the point of giving the death penalty in CA. Somethings not right with the DP there. :confused:

We did double that number in one year.
http://www.tdcj.state.tx.us/stat/annual.htmOh, there is a greater chance of someone dying due to natural causes on our DR.

But I do not support the DP anyway and it's cheaper to keep them alive too.

But I would not fight for this dude.

[DEPUTYDAWG]

So it's less than 24 hours now, possibly...

Wonder what ol' Tookie is doing, since he's NOT worrying, so he says.

I am sending my best wishes to all in California, as I hope pro-Tookie people don't creat havoc on other people or property if the execution goes through. Riots don't help a thing.

[Jeana (DP)]

Wow. Cali has only executed 12 since 1977? I checked the Texas stats and we're at 355 since 1982. It's almost like what's the point of giving the death penalty in CA. Somethings not right with the DP there. :confused:

We did double that number in one year.
http://www.tdcj.state.tx.us/stat/annual.htm


Lots and lots of liberals in California Sadie.

[JBean]

http://www.johnandkenshow.com/


LIVE JOHN & KEN BROADCAST FROM SAN QUENTIN PRISON

http://www.johnandkenshow.com/blogimages/took1_01.jpgYou’ve got to go sometime and sometime for Tookie is the first minute of December 13th, unless the Governor decides it’s in his best political interest to give the Killer a free ride for murdering four innocent people (see crime scene photos below). John & Ken will be broadcasting live from San Quentin Prison, Monday December 12th at 3pm. Listen as John & Ken debate the crowd of cheese and wine Liberals, save the whales and murderers groups and assorted gang banger types. Remember to listen this Monday from 3pm to 7pm. KFI AM 640 More Stimulating Talk Radio

[pacific]

(AP) ...Sister Helen Prejean, the inspiration for the film "Dead Man Walking," added her voice to the chorus calling on Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger to spare Williams' life.

"They are working out of the same moral framework that a gang does," said Prejean, a nun who ministers to death row inmates and was in town to accept an award from the American Civil Liberties Union.
What the hay? The laws of the State of California operate on the same moral framework that a gang does? Hello?

With all due respect, has the Sister ever been raped? Ever had her mother murdered?

In my humble opinion, 'nuff said on that score... :sick:


(AP) ...At least publicly, the person least occupied with his fate seemed to be Williams himself. He has said he doesn't plan to take the prison up on its offer of a last meal, a minister or spaces on the witness list for his friends or family. While he wants to live, he's prepared to die, Williams said.

"Me fearing what I'm facing, what possible good is it going to do for me? How is that going to benefit me?" Williams said during a recent interview with The Associated Press. "If it's my time to be executed, what's all the ranting and raving going to do?"
I think the guy is being macho... However, that last line of his, I agree with him 100%. Sanest utterance of anyone in this whole situation. LOL.

:p

Gooo, Tookie! ;)

[emmcee]

Do Scooter and the other guys on Death Row get to see Tookie walk to the chamber?

[JBean]

Arnold says no.

[Tom'sGirl]

No last meal, no witnesses...........12:01 a.m. bye, bye Stanley "Tookie" Williams :clap:

[Tom'sGirl]

The U.S. Supreme Court refused to stay the execution of Stanley Tookie Williams, hours after California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger refused to grant Williams clemency. (http://msnmember.my.msn.com/56.c589/1??cm=MSNBCfrontpagenews)

[scandi]

No last meal, no witnesses...........12:01 a.m. bye, bye Stanley "Tookie" Williams :clap:


I heard on MSNBC that Rita Cosby was there at SQ and would be a media witness to his death.

I know in other states it is mandated there must be a certain number of witnesses at an execution.

Thanks Linask for the info.


Scandi

[Tom'sGirl]

I heard on MSNBC that Rita Cosby was there at SQ and would be a media witness to his death.

I know in other states it is mandated there must be a certain number of witnesses at an execution.

Thanks Linask for the info.


Scandi
Well, how strange, according to what's been on out here they said he wanted no last meal, no family or media at his execution. :waitasec:

[concernedperson]

I am just not unhappy about this. Call me evil but I see the victims as finally having a right to say....I am importent! I had a potential that was taken away and your 24 years on death row was more than I had. I could have had babies and grandbabies. I could have had huge Christmas experiences, I could be seeing my granddaughter graduating from college,I could be holding holding someone that was importent to my life but no. You chose to end all this for me. So, your life has become just as devalued and so I wait for your demise. Not with glee but the fact that you never thought about anyone but yourself.

[scandi]

That might be what he wants. Did anyone see Rita's show at 6pm tonight. I missed it, but it was suppose to have been taped at SQ.

Also, I'd sure like to find that link posted here not too long ago that showed the most henious criminals on death row at SQ. There was a big colored pic of each and info about them - a slideshow.

Tak sa mycker!
[Scandi

[txsvicki]

Do Scooter and the other guys on Death Row get to see Tookie walk to the chamber?


Scooter better sit up and take notice. I just hope that some bleeding heart doesn't change things all around in the next 25 years or so and Scott somehow end up actually getting out of jail. If and when it does happen, maybe Scott can go by his chosen handle hottie just as the crips founder still proudly goes by his gang name tookie and dedicates his book to radical militants.

[Details]

I think whatever happens, the appeals process is going to be shortened. Scottie may not have anywhere near this long.

One thing that is clear - we have a broken court system in some areas - speed, as well as concern for both the victim, and the innocent convicted prisoners (no appeal based on DNA testing that could prove absolute innocence should be refused by idiot prosecutors only interested in their win ratio).

[Nikki 01]

Well, how strange, according to what's been on out here they said he wanted no last meal, no family or media at his execution. :waitasec:
He changed his mind and asked for 5 witnesses. I don't think he has a say about the media.

3 Minutes until the execution process begins.

[LinasK]

That might be what he wants. Did anyone see Rita's show at 6pm tonight. I missed it, but it was suppose to have been taped at SQ.

Also, I'd sure like to find that link posted here not too long ago that showed the most henious criminals on death row at SQ. There was a big colored pic of each and info about them - a slideshow.

Tak sa mycker!
[Scandi
Here ya go! http://www.ktvu.com/slideshow/news/4239219/detail.html?qs=1;s=1;dm=ss;p=news;w=320

[LinasK]

Posted on Mon, Dec. 12, 2005By Mike Adamick
http://www.mercurynews.com/images/common/spacer.gif
CONTRA COSTA TIMES
http://www.mercurynews.com/images/common/spacer.gif


Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger denied a second request to delay the execution of Stanley Tookie Williams less than an hour before the Crips gang co-founder and Nobel Peace Price nominee was scheduled to die for the shotgun slayings of four people in 1979.

The announcement came at 11:35 p.m., as protesters swarmed outside San Quentin Prison and as Williams was preparing to move into the execution chamber.

"The information provided in Williams' second request for reprieve does not justify overturning the jury's verdict," the governor said.

Williams' lawyers had filed a last-minute request to delay the execution for 60 days, saying a new witness had come forward to refute testimony at the 1979 trial.

The witness, Richard Crosley, was an inmate at a Los Angeles jail with two of the trial witnesses. Crosley claims those witnesses lied to win lighter sentences.

Earlier in the evening, Schwarzenegger rejected a similar delay request, saying there were multiple witnesses and physical evidence linking Williams to the killings.

Williams' lawyers quickly filed a new request after Crosley came forward in the evening, said Jonathan Harris, a lawyer for Williams. Harris was seeking a 60-day delay in the execution to examine Crosley's claims and the statements of other new witnesses.

The governor's decision essentially ended Williams' legal maneuvers and set the stage for California's 12th execution since the death penalty was reinstated in 1978.

Williams initially said he didn't want to invite witnesses to the 12:01 a.m. execution, but changed his mind in the evening. Corrections officials wouldn't disclose the names of his five witnesses.

Just hours before, a federal appeals court ruled against another hearing. Shortly afterward, Schwarzenegger rejected the Crips gang co-founder's pleas for clemency. Then, at 6 p.m., the governor declined to move the execution to another date.

"There is no reason to delay Williams' execution," the governor said in a statement. more at link:http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/news/breaking_news/13395129.htm

[Nikki 01]

He is dead.

[LinasK]

Dec. 13 - Crips co-founder Stanley Tookie Williams was executed Tuesday for four 1979 murders after appeals courts refused to reopen his case and Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger rejected the notion he had found redemption on death row.

Clemency Denied

Only a dozen protesters rallied outside Northern California's San Quentin State Prison shortly after Schwarzenegger's afternoon decision was announced, but the crowd grew to more than 1,000 late into the night. In contrast, the streets of South Los Angeles, where Williams' Crips gang and their deadly rivals, the Bloods, came to prominence in the 1980s, were quiet. more at link:http://abclocal.go.com/kgo/story?se...tate&id=3719337 (http://abclocal.go.com/kgo/story?section=state&id=3719337)

[LinasK]

Tue Dec 13, 2005 3:39 AM ET
Printer Friendly (javascript:commonPopup('/PrinterFriendlyPopup.aspx?type=bondsNews&storyID=URI%3aurn%3anewsml%3areuters.com%3a2005121 3%3aMTFH22178_2005-12-13_08-39-12_N1217603%3a1', 540, 525, 1, 'printerPopup')) | Email Article (javascript:commonPopup('/EmailPopup.aspx?type=bondsNews&storyID=URI%3aurn%3anewsml%3areuters.com%3a2005121 3%3aMTFH22178_2005-12-13_08-39-12_N1217603%3a1&link=investing/FinanceArticle.aspx', 540, 600, 1, 'emailPopup')) | Reprints (javascript:commonPopup('http://license.icopyright.net/3.5398?icx_id=URI%3aurn%3anewsml%3areuters.com%3a2 0051213%3aMTFH22178_2005-12-13_08-39-12_N1217603%3a1&edition=US&category=bondsNews', 580, 635, 1, 'purchasePopup')) | RSShttp://i.today.reuters.com/news/images/iconRSS.gif (http://today.reuters.com/rss/default.aspx)
(Page 1 of 2)http://i.today.reuters.com/investing/images/clear.gif By Adam Tanner



SAN QUENTIN, Calif., Dec 13 (Reuters) - California prison officials executed Stanley Tookie Williams, 51, the ex-leader of the Crips gang who brutally killed four people in 1979, early on Tuesday after top courts and Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger rejected final appeals to spare his life. The unofficial time of death was 12:35 a.m. PST Tuesday. more at link:http://today.reuters.com/investing/financeArticle.aspx?type=bondsNews&storyID=URI:urn:newsml:reuters.com:20051213:MTFH22 178_2005-12-13_08-39-12_N1217603:1

[pacific]

Thanks, LinasK, for this thread...and for all of the work you have done, sharing articles and other links with us.

I am really glad to see that Mr. Williams saw justice served - FINALLY. It was rather scary to contemplate what our society could become, if the people who think he was fine, were to have their way.

I'm grateful to Gov. Schwarzenegger & the courts for sticking to their guns (er.....bad pun: needles?) :blushing: If anyone has not read the denial report by the governor, I'd say that I think you are in for a treat.

It's always sad to see a person die. In this case, however, I believe it was justified.

[LinasK]

Thanks, LinasK, for this thread...and for all of the work you have done, sharing articles and other links with us.

I am really glad to see that Mr. Williams saw justice served - FINALLY. It was rather scary to contemplate what our society could become, if the people who think he was fine, were to have their way.

I'm grateful to Gov. Schwarzenegger & the courts for sticking to their guns (er.....bad pun: needles?) :blushing: If anyone has not read the denial report by the governor, I'd say that I think you are in for a treat.

It's always sad to see a person die. In this case, however, I believe it was justified.
Anytime (Insert Wavy Guy Smiley), just doing my part!

[LinasK]

7:47 AM PST, December 13, 2005By Jenifer Warren, Times Staff Writer



SAN QUENTIN -- At 12:01 this morning, having exhausted all appeals, Stanley Tookie Williams shuffled into San Quentin's death chamber, shackled at the wrist and waist and escorted by four burly guards.

After he climbed onto a padded gurney, officers tied Williams down with wide, black straps across his shins, thighs, waist and chest. His arms, stretched out to the side, were secured with leather restraints.
At 12:03 a.m., two officers pulled on surgical gloves as another entered the chamber with a plastic tub of supplies. Three minutes later, a needle was thrust successfully home into Williams' right arm and connected to an intravenous tube.

The rules, however, require a back-up in case one line should jostle loose or fail. And it was here that the carefully choreographed execution turned messy.

For 12 long minutes, a prison technician-her brow glistening with sweat-poked the convict's muscular left arm again and again, searching for a vein that would deliver a dose of poison. As loved ones watched in distress, the inmate visibly winced in pain.

EDITED BY DP DUE TO COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT


more at link:http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-121305witness_lat,0,5664853.story?coll=la-home-headlines

[LinasK]

Posted on Tue, Dec. 13, 2005By Patrick May
http://www.mercurynews.com/images/common/spacer.gif
Mercury News
http://www.mercurynews.com/images/common/spacer.gif


LOS ANGELES - Perhaps Stanley Tookie Williams' Death Row gospel of non-violence had something to do with it, but the streets of South-Central Los Angeles remained calm early today after the co-founder of the notorious Crips street gang was executed at San Quentin.

``It was a very quiet night,'' said officer Martha Garcia, spokeswoman for the Los Angeles Police Department. ``There was no rioting, no increase in gang activity. It was business as usual.''

Despite some concerns that Williams' execution could trigger street protests or even civil unrest, Los Angeles was calm all night and seemed almost groggy as the sun tried to break through a low-lying fog. Local newscasters were focused hard on the previous night's Golden Globe nominations and spent little time on Williams' death or the apparent lack of public fallout in his hometown.

Even the previous evening, as the nation watched and waited to see if the convicted murderer's life would be spared by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger or the U.S. Supreme Court, the south section of Los Angeles where Williams grew up seemed to go about its business, and reaction to Williams execution was either non-existent or conflicted. more at link:http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/news/breaking_news/13398118.htm

[proadvocate]

I love death sentences which have a happy ending.Of coarse none of Tookie's supporters thought it was so happy,but then again what can I expect from a buncha morons who think writing a few fairy tales,and saying Jesus loves me,excuses 1 from the brutal murder of 4 people.I found it hilarious to read these morons talking about how Tookie had solved the gang problem and steered so many kids away from gangs,only to see in the next sentence that gangs would retaliate if Big Poppa Punk was executed.Wait a fricking minute how can something he solved and steer everyone away from retaliate?Does a gang not eed members to do ride bys these days?I suppose Barbra Bechnel,Mike Farrell,Jamie Foxx,and Jesse Jackson think the crips have a buncha litte remote control toys programmed to do ride bys now......Sounds about the IQ level of Jesse anyway....LMAO