Officials in Georgia have postponed the execution of inmate Kelly Renee Gissendaner, which was scheduled for last night. In 1997, Gissendaner was convicted of helping to plan the murder of her husband. A Department of Corrections spokeswoman told reporters that the drugs to be used in the lethal injection appeared cloudy, and that the postponement was a precaution. In recent months, several lethal injections around the country have been botched because of issues with the controversial drug cocktails being used.
The case of Gissendaner has drawn widespread outcry from many Christian leaders and opponents of the death penalty, who say that she has become a new person in prison. Since her conviction nearly 20 years ago, Gissendaner has become a devoted Christian, helping other inmates behind bars. So far, nearly 78,000 people have signed this petition, urging prison officials to stop the execution. From the petition: “While incarcerated, she has been a pastoral presence to many, teaching, preaching, and living a life of purpose. Kelly is a living testament to the possibility of change and the power of hope. She is an extraordinary example of the rehabilitation that the corrections system aims to produce.” So far, officials have not announced when the execution would be rescheduled for …
