Republican Missouri Gov. Mike Parson has denied clemency for death row inmate Brian Dorsey, who is set to be executed for the 2004 killings of Ben and Sarah Bonnie. Dorsey, 52, is convicted of sexually assaulting Sarah Bonnie’s corpse after killing her. Dorsey’s attorney, Megan Crane, argues that he has shown remorse, transformation, and commitment to service during his time in prison. This decision comes despite requests for mercy from 72 current and former corrections officers, as well as a former Missouri Supreme Court justice.
Dorsey’s attorney, Megan Crane, expressed devastation at Gov. Parson’s decision to deny clemency for her client, highlighting Dorsey’s efforts to make amends for his crime and his positive behavior while in prison. Parson has never granted a clemency request during his tenure. An appeal based on Dorsey’s positive behavior and another appeal citing concerns over his trial lawyers’ financial incentives are still pending before the U.S. Supreme Court. Dorsey pleaded guilty to the murders without an agreement with prosecutors in exchange for being spared the death penalty. The killings occurred in 2006 at the Bonnie’s home near New Bloomfield.
Dorsey’s defense attorneys have argued that he suffered from drug-induced psychosis at the time of the killings, but has since gotten clean in prison. They have provided testimonials attesting to Dorsey’s character and transformation during his incarceration. Former Missouri Supreme Court Justice Michael Wolff, who was part of the court that denied Dorsey’s appeal in 2009, now believes that decision was wrong and highlights changes in Missouri Public Defenders’ policies regarding flat fees for defense attorneys.
The Missouri Department of Corrections has taken steps to address concerns about Dorsey’s risk of suffering during the execution process. Dorsey is described as obese, diabetic, and a former intravenous drug user, which may complicate finding a suitable vein for injection during the execution. A settlement filed in response to a federal lawsuit ensures measures will be taken to minimize any potential pain Dorsey may experience during the procedure. The settlement does not specify the changes that will be implemented or if anesthetics will be used during the cutdown procedure.
Governor Parson’s denial of clemency for Brian Dorsey has sparked debate and raised concerns over the impending execution. Dorsey’s defense team continues to fight for his life, citing his positive behavior while incarcerated and past legal issues surrounding his trial. Meanwhile, the Missouri Department of Corrections is working to address concerns about the potential pain Dorsey may face during the execution process. The decision to execute Dorsey for his role in the 2006 killings of his cousin and her husband remains a controversial and complex issue for all involved.
