The Board of Pardons and Parole can recommend a stay of execution and a commutation(lessening) of the sentence. This happened recently with Thomas Whitaker. Contact the Board Members by email at:
bpp-pio@tdcj.state.tx.us
Notes:
–Emails should begin with “Dear Board Members”
–Make sure to include the full name and TDCJ # of the prisoner
–State first that you are a resident of xx place (and maybe your relation to the case, religious affiliation, or occupation) and that you “oppose the execution” and are asking for the board members to “Recommend a stay of execution to Governor Abbott” and/or a “commutation of the sentence to Life Without Parole or Life in Prison” or in cases of innocence or glaring legal issues “A stay of execution until the courts have time to consider the issues with this case so that we can ensure that this inmate can have a fair trial (or sentencing hearing)” or something to that effect.
–Secondly, state any issues with the case including: problems with unconsidered evidence, problems with lying witnesses, problems with racism or disabilities, problems with unfair sentencing, or issues such as victim’s family members opposition to the execution, and any evidence that the person has shown positive change, and acknowledge the suffering of the inmate’s family and their possibility to provide something positive to their family or others.
–Restate your request and acknowledge your above arguments against the execution
— Thank them for their time and attention to the matter and sign with name and any contact information you feel comfortable putting there.
Sample Letter
Next:
Urge Governor Abbott to stay the execution and consider a commutation at:
Email form: https://gov.texas.gov/apps/contact/opinion.aspx
Telephone
(512) 463-1782 – Information and Referral and Opinion Hotline
**You can leave a message here**
(512) 463-2000 – Office of the Governor Main Switchboard
(office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CST)
Call 711 for Relay Texas – Citizen’s Assistance Telecommunications Device, if you are using a telecommunication device for the deaf (TDD)
Mailing Address
Office of the Governor
P.O. Box 12428
Austin, Texas 78711-2428
Texas Abolitionists 