Victim's Family Reacts To Clemency Denial Of Death Row Prisoner Jemaine Cannon

Death Row prisoner Jemaine Cannon was denied clemency in a three to two vote at a hearing June 7.

Cannon was sentenced to death in 1996 for stabbing a Tulsa mother of two in her apartment the year prior.

Sharonda White Clark’s family said they are relieved to finally get closure.

Mazurennae Clark said she was just two years old and her sister was four when their mom, Sharonda, was stabbed to death in 1995 in their apartment near 41st and Sheridan.

"No one to help me pick pretty dresses for prom, tell me how to dress, tell me how to do certain things," said Mazurennae.

Prosecutors said Cannon killed 20-year-old Sharonda after he escaped from the Walters Community Work Center, where he was serving time for attacking another woman.

Mazurennae said she was shocked and angry when she saw Cannon for the first time at his clemency hearing. The 51-year-old has always said he acted in self-defense.

“The ending of human life was never desired, planned or premeditated, no murder occurred,” said Cannon during the June 7 clemency hearing. “Due to the acts committed against me, I defended my life."

The Pardon and Parole Board voted three to two to deny Cannon's request for clemency.

"Relief for my family, relief for my sister's pain, relief for my grandmother that didn't make it to see this day,” said Mazurennae.

Sharonda's widower said he also finds comfort in getting closure.

"This is the blood stain that's on our marriage certificate,” said Kelly Clark. “I guess, ‘til death do us part. That's what I thought when I saw it. My best friend is gone."

Kelly said Cannon robbed him of time with his wife and deserves the death penalty.

"Scripture says, 'An eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth,’" Kelly said.

Cannon is set to die July 20 by lethal injection, and Sharonda's family plans to be at the execution.

News On 6 called Cannon's attorney several times for comment and we haven't heard back.

In a statement, Tulsa County District Attorney Steve Kunzweiler said: “Jemaine Cannon is convicted of a horrific crime, stabbing Sharonda Clark to death. Prior to killing Sharonda Clark, Cannon exhibited a history of violent crime. A judge and jury decided the death penalty was a fitting punishment for Cannon, a decision that should be respected. He’s exhausted all of his appeals and now must face the consequences of his actions. Sharonda Clark’s family deserves to see justice for their lost loved one.”