On March 25, the Pardon and Parole Board voted 3-2 to have Richard Smith's death sentence commuted.
Mr. Smith is a different person than he was in 1987. He has sought to use his experience to help others turn away from drug abuse, including a number of his own relatives. He has contributed to the development of a community endeavor called TASK (Teaching and Saving Kids), which seeks to turn young people away from drugs, gangs and crime.
It is now up to Gov. Brad Henry. It would be in the best interests of justice if he would follow the recommendation of the Pardon and Parole Board and commute Smith's sentence to life in prison.
"Tom Gallagher
Oklahoma City
