On April 12, 2010 the State of Utah will determine the method and date of the execution for Ronnie Lee Gardner. In 1985 Gardner was sentenced to death for the murder of attorney Michael Burdell and the serious wounding of Bailiff George Kirk while attempting to escape from the old Salt Lake County Courthouse. On that day Gardner was in court for a hearing concerning the charges of robbery and murder. Attempts to appeal the ruling have been denied but there may be future attempts at a higher level.
A coalition of groups against the use of the death penalty will be protesting outside the Scott Matheson Courthouse where the hearing will be taking place. The protest is being organized by the UTADP, Utahns for Alternatives to the Death Penalty, and will also be attended by religious groups and leaders, public interest groups and other organizations. A meeting of protestors will take place at 2pm in front of the Scott Matheson Courthouse. Other members of the public are welcome to attend and join the protest against the use of the death penalty.
Related posts:
- Firing Squad Still an Option for Utah Convicted Murderer
- Arraignment Set for Accused Utah Murderer Curtis Allgier
- Utah Criminal Law Question: Do I have to talk to Salt Lake City Police?
Tags: death penalty, gardner, protest, Ronnie Lee Gardner
