A news conference will take place Thursday March 20 at 11:00 a.m. in House Hearing Room 7 in the basement of the State Capitol Building, focusing on the restorative justice efforts of Jeffrey Ferguson who is set to be executed on March 26.
Speaking at the press conference will be:
Richard Hayes, Childhood-present friend and former brother-in-law
Tom Cummins, Volunteer in Correction who has worked with Mr. Ferguson in prison for 10 years
Jennifer Herndon, Attorney for Ferguson
A movie clip from the documentary “Potosi: God in Death Row” by Lisa Rhoden Boyd will also be shown at the news conference. This segment highlights Ferguson’s prison work. Other individuals who have worked with Jeffrey Ferguson in prison may also be in attendance, along with supporters imploring that Gov. Nixon halt Ferguson’s execution and commute his death sentence.
Ferguson was convicted and sentenced to death for the 1989 abduction, rape, and murder of teenager Kelli Hall. “Our sympathies go out to Ms. Halls’ family for the sorrow and grief that they have experienced over this tragic, senseless death” said Rita Linhardt, Chair of MADP’s Board.
He has steadfastly expressed remorse and taken responsibility for Ms. Hall’s death, recognizing evidence connects him to the crimes. He reports having however, no memory of his involvement due to an alcohol-induced blackout.
While in prison Ferguson has extensively participated in restorative justice efforts that help crime victims heal from the trauma they have experienced and requires prisoners to take full responsibility for their actions. He has dedicated his life to various worthwhile works while incarcerated such as helping to start the prison’s hospice program and Christian ministry efforts that have helped countless other inmates. He has been a model prisoner for over two decades.
“Nothing can sadly restore Ms. Hall’s life. Mr. Ferguson can be held accountable for his actions by remaining in prison for the rest of his life. Society will benefit if he is allowed to continue to live and help other inmates who may one day return to the community. Society will gain nothing by his execution,” notes Linhardt.