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Breaking News
Bush Comments on Upcoming Execution of Gary Graham
Aired June 22, 2000 - 9:14 p.m. ETTHIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
GOV. GEORGE W. BUSH (R-TX), PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE: ... laws of our state, including the death penalty. My job is to ensure our state's laws are enforced fairly. This is a responsibility I take very seriously because the final determination of innocence or guilt is among the most profound decisions a governor can make. I recognize there are good people who oppose the death penalty. I've heard their message and I respect their heartfelt point of view.
On October 28, 1981, Mr. Gary Graham was found guilty of capital murder and later sentenced to death by a Harris County grand jury, which concluded beyond a reasonable doubt that he shot and killed Mr. Bobby Lambert during the course of a robbery.
The murder of Mr. Lambert marked the beginning of a week-long crime rampage during which, by his own admission, Mr. Graham committed at least 10 armed robberies involving 13 different victims. Two of his victims were shot. One was kidnapped and raped at gunpoint.
Over the last 19 years, Mr. Graham's case has been reviewed more than 20 times by state and federal courts. Thirty-three judges have heard and found his numerous claims to be without merit. In addition to the extensive due process provided Mr. Graham through the courts, the Board of Pardons and Paroles has thoroughly reviewed the record of this case as well as all new claims raised by Mr. Graham's lawyers.
Today, the Board of Pardons and Paroles voted to allow Mr. Graham's execution to go forward. I support the board's position.
Mr. Graham has had full and fair access to state and federal courts, including the United States Supreme Court. After considering all the facts, I am confident justice is being done.
May God bless the victims, the families of the victims and may God bless Mr. Graham.
LARRY KING, CNN ANCHOR: Now that was a statement by Governor Bush.
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