Oklahoma Moves to Retry Richard Glossip Without Death Penalty
June 10, 2023 (UPI) – Longtime death row inmate Richard Glossip is set to face a new murder trial in Oklahoma, but this time without the possibility of the death penalty. The announcement follows a status hearing at the Oklahoma County Courthouse, where Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond confirmed the state’s pursuit of a retrial after the U.S. Supreme Court vacated Glossip’s capital conviction earlier this year.
Glossip, 62, was convicted twice for the 1997 murder of Barry Van Treese, his employer at an Oklahoma City motel. Drummond acknowledged the Supreme Court’s ruling highlighted that Glossip did not receive a fair trial; however, he did not assert Glossip’s innocence. Instead, Drummond committed to ensuring a fair trial while maintaining the existing first-degree murder charges, seeking a life imprisonment sentence.
“My office thoroughly reviewed the case and determined that there is sufficient evidence for a murder conviction,” stated Drummond, who supported the Supreme Court’s call for a new trial. Glossip has experienced a tumultuous legal history, including nine postponed execution dates and a conviction that was overturned in 2001.
In February, the Supreme Court ruled 5-3 in favor of Glossip, citing prosecutorial misconduct. Drummond emphasized a commitment to truthful testimony, stating, "Unlike past prosecutors who allowed a key witness to lie on the stand, my office will ensure Mr. Glossip receives a fair trial based on hard facts and solid evidence."
Glossip’s next court appearance is scheduled for June 17 in front of Oklahoma County District Judge Heather Coyle. Drummond expressed his dedication to seeking justice today, recognizing the limitations of the past and the need for a fair legal process moving forward.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
