Professor Paul Butler joined Allison Seymour, DC Fox 5's morning news co-host, to discuss the pending execution of John Allen Muhammad, also known as the D.C. sniper, who represented himself at trial. He was convicted of six counts of first-degree murder and sentenced to death in 2006. His appeal to the Supreme Court had been denied, and his last option left was a call for clemency to Virginia's Governor, Tim Kaine.
Professor Butler discussed the legal procedure post-conviction and before execution. While most states allow for an extended period for appeals after conviction, Virginia has a unique "rocket docket," which accelerates the appeals process to hasten the execution of individuals sentenced to death.
Muhammad was executed the night after this segment aired.
