Efforts To Save Oklahoma Death Row Inmate Julius Jones Continue To Grow

It was just two days ago when Black Lives Matter Oklahoma City issued its list of demands.

One of which that Governor Stitt grant clemency and immediately release Julius Jones.

Jones was 19 years old when he was sentenced to death in the 1999 murder for killing Edmond businessman Paul Howell in his driveway. Howell was shot to death.

Jones is now 39 years old. The state announced in February that it will resume the death penalty.

Outside city hall Monday, Pastor T. Sheri Dickerson made it official by demanding Julius Jones’ clemency.

Jimmy Lawson has fought continuously to clear his best friend’s name. He spoke to Jones following Saturday’s large protest at the state Capitol.

“I told him what the crowd looked like and all he could say is wow Jimmy wow,” said Lawson. “He’s excited at the fact that he has so much support and more times than not everyone needs a voice. Everybody needs hope and that is all we are trying to do for him.”

Meanwhile at Tabernacle Baptist Church, Julius’s home church in northeast Oklahoma City,

Pastor Larry Crudup is watching a change.org petition where millions of people and counting have signed a petition to save Jones’ life.

“It is amazing that we have more signatures on that change.org page than we do COVID-19 cases in the United States,” said Pastor Larry Crudup. “COVID-19 cases are around 1,000, 800. This is serious. This is important.”

With more momentum than ever, those behind the movement hope Governor Stitt is listening.

“Do what is right and release Julius Jones. Look at his case,” said Crudup. “Put pressure on what you said you were going to do which is look at our justice department and flip that system. It is time now.

NBA superstar’s Blake Griffin, Russell Westbrook and Trae Young all sent letters to Governor Stitt Wednesday pushing for Jones's clemency.

Visit Justice For Julius online for more information on how you can send a letter to Governor Stitt.