A judge in Georgia has ordered a stay of execution for Marcus Ray Johnson who was scheduled to be executed today. Johnson was found guilty of the murder of Angela Sizemore. Two factors appear to have played a role in the stay: “police in Albany presented Johnson’s defence team with a new box of evidence that has never before been examined. Johnson’s lawyers argued the box could change the understanding of the case.” In addition, the judge agreed to allow DNA testing to take place.
I pray for the family and friends of Angela Sizemore. I pray for the judges, attorneys, and others involved in the case. I pray for the Marcus Ray Johnson and his friends and family.
Christopher L. Johnson is scheduled for execution by the state of Alabama on October 20. Johnson has been convicted of killing his six-month old son – Elias Ocean Johnson. Reports are that he has admitted the crime. He has apparently refused to pursue any appeals and has filed court papers saying that he does not want anyone to file appeals on his behalf.
My mind reels as I ponder his crime. And yet – his execution will not bring back Elias – his execution will diminish us as does any execution carried out by the state.
I pray for those who loved (and still love) Elias Ocean Johnson. I pray for Christopher L. Johnson and his family and friends. I pray for the judges, attorneys, and others involved in the case.
May God have mercy on us all.
See you along the Trail.
Along the Graybeard Trail 