Gov. Abbott comments on Melissa Lucio's scheduled execution during Valley visit
Related Story
With the scheduled April 27 execution date still looming over Melissa Lucio, Channel 5 News posed the question to Texas Gov. Greg Abbott during his visit to Cameron County Wednesday if he plans to put a stop to it.
“It is my understanding that the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles has not provided a decision to me yet,” Abbott said. “With that being the case, as the law requires, the governor must await for a decision from the Board of Pardons and Paroles.”
RELATED: Melissa Lucio's attorneys file complaint against state over First Amendment rights
Channel 5 News then followed up with the governor, asking if he would approve it in the event he receives a decision from the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles.
“I’ll make a decision once it comes to me,” he replied.
Abbott’s response comes after Lucio’s attorneys filed for clemency in hopes to spare her life on March 22.
Lucio, now 53, was charged for the murder of her two-year-old daughter Mariah in 2007 and later convicted following a 2008 jury trial.
READ ALSO: Legal team for Melissa Lucio files application for clemency
Lucio has maintained her innocence.
Her attorneys have argued that new evidence shows Mariah died from medical complications after a fall — not from physical abuse.
“She was especially vulnerable to the coercive interrogation tactics due to her history of abuse and trauma,” attorney Vanessa Potkin said. “Abnormally high levels of suggestibility and compliance, which has been demonstrated through recent testing."
Channel 5 News has contacted the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole for comment.
RELATED COVERAGE:
- Lawmakers express support in halting execution of Melissa Lucio
- Son of Melissa Lucio asks Cameron County district attorney to revisit her case
- Catholic Diocese of Brownsville Bishop speaks on Melissa Lucio case
- 'Death is not the answer to death': Diocese of Brownsville bishop releases statement in support of Melissa Lucio
- Director of Melissa Lucio documentary shares reason why she started the film
- Family, supporters of Valley woman on death row continue efforts to halt execution
- 'She's innocent': Family asking Valley officials to watch documentary, halt execution of Melissa Lucio