At Sustainable Action Now, our commitment to justice extends to the very core of human dignity. Today, we stand at a critical juncture, witnessing a deeply troubling trend in Florida that prioritizes finality over truth, and vengeance over the fundamental principles of justice and mercy. The state is poised to carry out two executions this month, despite profound concerns regarding due process, judicial fairness, and the very humanity of those on death row. This “killing spree,” as faith leaders have aptly termed it, demands our immediate and unwavering attention.
The Urgent Case of Michael “Mike” Bell
Michael “Mike” Bell is scheduled to be executed in Florida on Tuesday, July 15th, at 6 PM. This impending execution is particularly alarming given the deeply troubling allegations surrounding his case. Earlier today, the Florida Supreme Court denied his claims, a ruling that hinged on strict procedural rules rather than a thorough examination of the merits. This decision effectively brushed aside serious accusations of witness coercion, suppressed evidence, and prosecutorial misconduct – claims that, if properly considered, could fundamentally alter the understanding of his conviction.
Witnesses in Mike Bell’s case have described being subjected to threats by police and prosecutors, including intimidation tactics involving jail time, the loss of their children, and even physical coercion. Yet, despite these harrowing accounts, the Court deemed these claims insufficient to prove misconduct. This ruling tragically highlights a systemic flaw within Florida’s justice system: a pervasive prioritization of finality, especially once an execution warrant is signed, over the diligent pursuit of truth. Successive motions, regardless of their merit or the compelling new evidence they present, are almost invariably denied due to rigid procedural bars.
This is not merely a legal technicality; it is a profound moral failing. When a system becomes more concerned with adhering to a calendar than with ensuring justice, it risks executing individuals whose convictions may be tainted by grave injustices.
The Troubling Case of Edward “Zak” Zakrzewski
Just weeks later, Air Force Veteran Edward “Zak” Zakrzewski is scheduled to be executed in Florida on Tuesday, July 31st, at 6 PM, for the murders of Sylvia, Edward, and Anna Zakrzewski. At the time of the crime, Zak was serving on active duty, adding another layer of complexity to an already tragic situation.
Zak’s death sentences were the product of two simple majority jury votes (7-5 each), coupled with a judge’s override of a jury’s life verdict. This crucial detail is not merely procedural; it speaks to a fundamental issue of fairness. In virtually no other state in the nation, including under Florida’s current law, would he even be eligible for execution with such a non-unanimous jury recommendation. This disquieting reality underscores how Florida’s past and present legal frameworks can lead to outcomes that are out of step with national standards of justice and due process.
A Collective Plea for Mercy: Florida Faith Leaders Call for Moratorium
In a powerful display of moral leadership, Florida faith leaders recently gathered in Tallahassee, delivering a poignant letter to Governor DeSantis calling for an immediate moratorium on executions. Signed by over 100 ordained and lay faith leaders from across the state, their letter urges the Governor to “stop all executions in Florida and work toward a justice system that reflects the moral leadership our communities expect and deserve.”
Pastor Demetrius Minor of Tampa Life Church eloquently summarized their collective plea: “Governor DeSantis, we are calling on you today as people of faith across denominations, across political lines, across this great state, to stop. To pause. To allow your conscience, and not just your calendar, to lead. We ask you to declare a moratorium on executions in Florida… Because mercy is not weakness. Accountability is not annihilation. And the Gospel we preach calls us not to throw people away, but to affirm that every person, no matter how far they have fallen, is still made in the image of God.”
These are not mere words; they are a profound appeal to conscience, a reminder that true justice is tempered with mercy, and that accountability does not necessitate annihilation.
Your Voice is Needed Now More Than Ever
We fervently hope and pray that Governor DeSantis takes these urgent messages to heart. However, history teaches us that this “killing spree” will not cease unless we, as advocates for justice and compassion, continue to push back. Your voice, your strength, and your courage are needed now more than ever.
- For Mike Bell: Please sign and share his petition immediately. Then, contact Governor DeSantis, who holds the sole authority to halt this execution, and urge him to stop the unnecessary execution of Mike Bell. Once you’ve sent a message, call his office directly at 850.717.9210.
- For Edward “Zak” Zakrzewski: Sign this petition and add your voice to the growing chorus urging Governor DeSantis to stop Zak’s execution.
If Mike Bell’s execution proceeds next Thursday, we will be present at Florida State Prison for a vigil beginning at 5 PM. We encourage advocates across the state to also hold vigils and protests. Join them in person or virtually to recognize Mike’s humanity and stand against this injustice. Find more information on how to participate and support these efforts on our website.
At Sustainable Action Now, we believe in a justice system that upholds the dignity of every individual, embraces rehabilitation, and prioritizes truth over expediency. It’s time to resist injustice and demand compassion over cruelty. For more information and resources on the death penalty and how you can take action, please visit our Death Penalty section on Sustainable Action Now.
