Let's Be Sure | Reed execution should be delayed

In 1996, a 19-year-old Bastrop, Texas, woman named Stacey Stites was brutally raped and murdered. Her fiance, a police officer named Jimmy Fennell, was considered a prime suspect.

But two years later a man named Rodney Reed was convicted of the crime and sentenced to death.

Now, more than two decades after being tried, Reed faces execution a week from today.

In the years since he was convicted, there have been a lot of questions about Reed's guilt. The Innocence Project took up his case and has developed new evidence - including forensics and witnesses - that casts considerable doubt on whether Reed committed the crime.

The case raises questions about justice in the Lone Star State as well. Texas courts have consistently refused DNA tests that could help determine Reed's guilt or innocence.

Reed's legal team is working around the clock to have their client's execution delayed. In our view the delay is justified.

We can't say whether Reed is innocent or guilty. But we can say the state must make sure they have the right man before strapping him to a gurney. The new evidence should be thoroughly reviewed. DNA testing should be done. And then let's see where the case stands.

It's been more than 20 years. There is no rush now. For the sake of justice, Texas needs to be sure before claiming a life for a life.

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