Child Murder Victim’s Family Shares Emotional Fight For Justice As Richard Rojem Denied Clemency

The Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board denied clemency to a death row inmate.

Richard Rojem Jr. was convicted of the 1984 murder of his seven-year-old former stepdaughter Layla Dawn Cummings. Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board members spoke in unity as they unanimously denied a chance for Richard Rojem Jr. to escape execution. 

On Monday, Layla's aunt made an emotional plea for justice. Vicky Cummings said few words can describe the pain of losing Layla. She pleaded with board members to deny clemency and all five members agreed. Cummings said she has waited “40 long years” for justice.  

“I have become weary all these years pressing against that prison door trying to keep him in. having to relive and reiterate this horror -- time and time again,” Cummings said. 

Cummings revealed the pain inflicted on her family – especially her brother Don who passed away a short time after his daughter’s death. 

“Only 14 months had passed since he and I stood by the tiny white casket of his seven-year-old daughter,” Cummings said. 

Rojem maintained his innocence. 

“I did not murder Layla,” said Rojem, to the Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board on Monday. 

Cummings asked the board to remember her late brother. 

“Feel his pain,” she said. “I beg of you. feel his pain.” 

Time for Cummings has felt frozen, but she said the board’s decision could help her family's healing process begin. 

Please,” Cummings said. “Just ten more days.” 

Moments later all five board members decided together with each member saying “no” to clemency. Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond also requested that clemency be rejected in this case. 

Rojem has been sentenced to death for the crime three separate times. The first two death sentences were overturned due to jury errors. Rojem is now set to be executed on June 27.