The Guardian
Alabama governor commutes Toforest Johnson’s death sentence
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has replaced Toforest Johnson’s death sentence with life imprisonment without parole as doubts about his conviction have grown. The case involves the 1995 killing of Jefferson County deputy sheriff William Hardy. Johnson has consistently asserted his innocence, and several former public officials, along with the local district attorney, have advocated a new trial.
What to know
- 01
Toforest Johnson no longer faces execution but will remain imprisoned for life without parole.
- 02
Johnson maintains his innocence, with several former public officials and the local district attorney supporting a new trial.
Why it matters
The commutation changes Johnson’s punishment, while the calls for a new trial concern the reliability of his conviction.
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