In a chilling display of escalating urgency, the State of Florida continues its relentless pursuit of executions, casting a long shadow over fundamental principles of justice and fairness. Just moments before our scheduled update on Michael Bell’s impending execution, Governor DeSantis signed his ninth death warrant of 2025, condemning Air Force Veteran Edward ‘Zak’ Zakrzewski to death on July 31st. This alarming pace not only ties Florida’s historical record for executions in a single year but also raises profound questions about the integrity and humanity of its capital punishment system.
Edward ‘Zak’ Zakrzewski: A Case of Unprecedented Injustice
The case of Edward ‘Zak’ Zakrzewski stands as a stark testament to the unique and deeply flawed nature of Florida’s death penalty statute. Edward’s death sentences were the result of two simple majority jury votes – 7-5 in each instance – followed by a judge’s override of a jury’s life verdict. This procedural anomaly is virtually unheard of elsewhere in the United States. In no other state, including under Florida’s current legal framework, would Edward even qualify for execution. His situation highlights a critical flaw: a system that allows a person to be sentenced to death on such a narrow margin, and against a jury’s initial recommendation for life, is inherently vulnerable to error and injustice.
The timing of this warrant is particularly poignant, arriving just days before the Fourth of July, a national holiday celebrating freedom and justice. It also comes less than a month after Governor DeSantis proudly signed legislation aimed at supporting veterans, boldly proclaiming Florida as “the most veteran-friendly state in the nation.” The dissonance between this rhetoric and the swift execution of a decorated Air Force veteran, under such questionable legal circumstances, is profound and deeply troubling. For more insight into the broader implications of these actions, visit https://sustainableactionnow.org/death-penalty/.
The Looming Execution of Michael Bell: A Fight for Truth
The clock is ticking for Michael “Mike” Bell, whose execution is scheduled for July 15th at 6 PM. If carried out, it will be the eighth execution in Florida this year, equaling the state’s highest recorded number. Mike Bell’s case is currently before the Florida Supreme Court, a critical juncture following an evidentiary hearing that many argue was deeply flawed. This hearing, designed to examine powerful new evidence, failed to adequately scrutinize information that directly undermines the State’s original trial evidence.
Serious doubts persist regarding the integrity of Mike’s conviction and death sentence. Crucially, no physical evidence ever linked him to the shooting. The prosecution’s entire case rested on the testimony of a single eyewitness who has now recanted, stating that investigators coerced him into fabricating his account. He now asserts that he only heard gunshots, rather than witnessing the crime itself. Despite these grave allegations, Florida appears to be rushing towards an irreversible punishment, seemingly without any meaningful evaluation of these new claims.
Even more disturbing is the State’s reaction to these recantations. Instead of pursuing the truth and ensuring justice, the State allegedly threatened the witnesses with perjury charges, effectively forcing them to retract their new statements and align with the initial prosecutorial theory. This pattern of behavior underscores long-standing criticisms of Florida’s death penalty scheme, which has been faulted since its inception for its apparent disregard for fairness, accountability, and due process. Mike Bell’s case serves as yet another stark example of this systemic dysfunction. The very purpose of our courts is to seek truth, not to suppress or hide from it.
Mike Bell deserves a genuine opportunity to be heard, not a proceeding designed to obscure the truth. The Florida Supreme Court has a moral imperative to intervene. Governor DeSantis must halt this execution immediately. And the people of Florida must confront a fundamental question: if the courts and the Governor refuse to correct these undeniable injustices, who will? We have less than two weeks to mobilize. Every petition signature, every message sent to Governor DeSantis, is a vital step in this urgent fight. Take action now at https://sustainableactionnow.org/death-penalty/.
A Glimmer of Hope: Compensation for Exonerees
Amidst these somber updates, a rare and significant victory has emerged. Last Friday, Governor DeSantis approved legislation that finally removes a cumbersome provision, allowing death row exonerees in Florida to apply for compensation for their wrongful incarceration – up to $50,000 per year. This critical development carries immense implications for the Florida Abolition of the Death Penalty (FADP)’s three courageous exoneree Board Members: Herman Lindsey, Ron Wright, and Clemente Aguirre. After enduring horrific ordeals of wrongful imprisonment and the constant threat of execution, these men finally have the opportunity to receive some measure of compensation for the years stolen from their lives.
While all three men will still need to navigate complex court systems to secure their rightful compensation, this legislation represents a crucial first step towards alleviating Florida’s shameful historical treatment of its exonerees. The ultimate compensation decision will rest with individual state attorneys and the circuit courts in the counties where the wrongful convictions occurred. Sustainable Action Now stands in solidarity with these brave individuals as they continue their fight for justice and restitution. We will keep you updated on their progress and inform you how you can support their ongoing battle.
Our Collective Responsibility: Action Now
The recent events in Florida serve as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for sustained action against the death penalty. From the questionable legal basis of Edward Zakrzewski’s sentence to the deeply troubling allegations surrounding Michael Bell’s conviction, the flaws in Florida’s capital punishment system are glaringly apparent. While the progress on exoneree compensation offers a beacon of hope, it also underscores the devastating reality of wrongful convictions that necessitate such measures.
Sustainable Action Now remains committed to advocating for a justice system that prioritizes truth, fairness, and human dignity over expediency and flawed processes. Your voice is crucial. By staying informed, signing petitions, and contacting your representatives, you contribute directly to a movement demanding accountability and reform. Let us continue to push for a future where justice truly serves all, and where irreversible mistakes are no longer a tragic possibility. For more ways to get involved and to support our mission, please visit https://sustainableactionnow.org/death-penalty/.
