Missouri Governor Mike Parson denied clemency for Christopher Collings, a death row inmate set to be executed for the 2007 murder of 9-year-old Rowan Ford. Collings, who confessed to the crime, is scheduled for execution by lethal injection on Tuesday. His defense petitioned for clemency, citing his brain abnormalities and a history of childhood abuse, arguing that he lacked full awareness and judgment. They also pointed out the perceived unfairness in the case, noting that Rowan’s stepfather, David Spears, who also confessed, was allowed to plead to lesser charges. The U.S. Supreme Court rejected Collings’ appeal, and no further appeals are planned. Governor Parson has overseen 12 executions and has denied clemency in similar cases.
