Summary
In Alabama, Will Berry, whose mother was murdered, has asked for the execution of her killer, Geoffrey West, to be stopped. West, convicted of murder during a robbery in 1997, expressed remorse and received forgiveness from Berry. Berry wrote to the governor, stating that he forgives West and does not want the death penalty executed in his family's name.
Key Facts
- Will Berry was 11 years old when his mother, Margaret Berry, was killed during a gas station robbery in 1997.
- Geoffrey West, the man who committed the murder, was 21 at the time and has expressed regret for his actions.
- Berry and West have exchanged letters, with Berry forgiving West and asking the state to stop his execution.
- Berry sent a letter to Alabama Governor Kay Ivey asking for clemency, saying the execution would not help his family heal.
- Governor Ivey responded, citing Alabama law that supports the death penalty for serious crimes.
- West was convicted of capital murder and received a death sentence based on a jury's recommendation.
- Berry's request for a meeting with West was denied due to prison rules.
- Other family members of murder victims in Alabama have also opposed the death penalty in separate cases.
