Oklahoma governor commutes Julius Jones’ death sentence

By SEAN MURPHY
Associated Press

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt has announced he is commuting the death sentence of condemned inmate Julius Jones, just hours before his scheduled execution. Stitt announced his decision on Thursday to commute Jones’ sentence to life in prison with no chance of parole. The state’s Pardon and Parole Board had recommended that Stitt commute Jones’ sentence. The 41-year-old Jones was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to die for the shooting death of Edmond businessman Paul Howell during a carjacking. Jones has maintained his innocence, alleging he was framed by a co-defendant who testified against him.