Man on Death Row Requests Execution by Lethal Injection for Victims’ Families
A man convicted of killing five people in 2016 in Citronelle, Alabama, has expressed his desire to be executed by lethal injection instead of nitrogen gas. The convicted killer, Derrick Dearman, has decided to drop his appeals to ensure justice and closure for the families of his victims.
Justice for Victims’ Families
In a recent phone interview from prison, the 36-year-old Dearman stated, “Now it’s time for the victims and their families to get the justice they rightly deserve to start the closure.” He emphasized the importance of closure for the families affected by the tragic events of 2016.
Unique Circumstances
Dearman acknowledged that his decision to forego appeals should not set a precedent for other inmates on death row. He highlighted the diversity of cases among inmates and suggested that some individuals could potentially reintegrate into society if given the chance.
Details of the Crime
Dearman’s heinous crime involved the murder of five individuals using a gun and an axe while under the influence of methamphetamine. Among the victims was 22-year-old Chelsea Marie Reed, who was pregnant at the time. Dearman was convicted on six counts of murder, including the unborn child.
The other victims included Shannon Melissa Randall (35), Robert Lee Brown (26), Justin Kaleb Reed (23), and Joseph Adam Turner (26). Dearman also kidnapped a three-month-old baby after the murders, eventually surrendering to authorities at his father’s residence.
Execution Method Preference
Reports indicate that Dearman has expressed a preference for lethal injection over nitrogen gas as the method of execution. Alabama recently utilized nitrogen gas for an execution, with plans to employ the same method in upcoming executions.
