Wed Sep 25 09:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Oklahoma Governor to Decide Fate of Man Sentenced to Death for 1992 Robbery-Murder

**Oklahoma City, OK** – Emmanuel Littlejohn, 52, sits on death row awaiting a decision from Governor Kevin Stitt that could determine his fate. Littlejohn was convicted in 1992 of the murder of Kenneth Meers during a robbery at Meers’ convenience store. While Littlejohn admits his role in the robbery, he maintains he did not fire the fatal shot.

The case has been fraught with controversy, with conflicting accounts from the prosecution about who pulled the trigger. Initially, prosecutors claimed Littlejohn’s accomplice, Glenn Bethany, was the shooter, but later asserted that Littlejohn fired the fatal shot during Littlejohn’s trial. Both men were ultimately convicted under the felony murder statute, which allows for murder charges even if the defendant did not directly cause the death.

Littlejohn’s legal team has argued that his execution would be a miscarriage of justice, citing inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case and the fact that jurors misunderstood the meaning of a life without parole sentence, leading them to erroneously vote for the death penalty.

Jurors have submitted sworn affidavits expressing remorse for their decision, stating they believed Littlejohn could potentially be released from a life sentence, which is not the case.

The Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board recommended clemency for Littlejohn, a move met with opposition from the state Attorney General. The ultimate decision now lies with Governor Stitt, who has only granted clemency once previously.

Littlejohn expresses hope that Stitt will grant him clemency, allowing him to spend more time with his daughter and new grandchild. “I just want him to spare my life, let me live a life,” Littlejohn said.

The case has sparked renewed debate about the death penalty and the need for thorough review of capital punishment cases. It remains to be seen whether Governor Stitt will grant clemency to Littlejohn or uphold the death sentence.

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