Oklahoma Black Caucus Addresses Julius Jones' Clemency Recommendation, Death Penalty In State

The Oklahoma Black Legislative Caucus addressed the death penalty after Oklahoma resumed executions for the first time in almost seven years.

The caucus also discussed their stance on the Julius Jones case after his clemency hearing and ahead of his scheduled execution.

They said the death penalty is not the answer to lowering the crime rate.

“I'm concerned as far as the methods of the executions that are taking place. We just need to take our time and figure this out. You know, you can easily kill someone, but you can never bring them back,” said State Rep. Jason Lowe, D-Oklahoma City.

There are six more executions scheduled. Julius Jones was convicted of killing Paul Howell, and he is next in line to be executed by the state later this month.

“Some Oklahomans believe that the death penalty is a deterrent to crime. I do not believe that it is. I'm a big believer in rehabilitation instead of incarceration, and in this particular case involving Julius, he has asserted his innocence over the last 20 years,” Lowe said.

The Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board voted to recommend clemency for Jones. Now, the Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus is asking the governor to accept the recommendation.

”We're pleading and praying that Gov. Stitt is listening. We know that God is listening. We could not have come this far as people of faith and we're just asking that Oklahoma right a wrong,” said State Rep. Regina Goodwin, D-Tulsa.

Howell's family stands by the verdict made more than 20 years ago, and they're confident Jones was the man that killed their loved one.

If Gov. Kevin Stitt denies clemency for Jones, his execution date will be November 18.