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Florida carries out 18th execution this year under DeSantis

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 20 Oct, 05:31 · Archive

Florida is set to carry out its 18th execution of the year, moving closer to tying last year's state record of 19.

Florida is set to carry out its 18th execution of the year on Tuesday under Republican Governor Ron DeSantis. William Reaves, 77, was convicted of first-degree murder for shooting Indian River County Deputy Richard Raczkowski in September 1986. Reaves would become Florida's eighth prisoner over the age of 70 executed this year, highlighting the nation's aging death-row population.

According to court records, Deputy Raczkowski responded to a 911 call that Reaves had placed at a payphone outside a Vero Beach convenience store. During their encounter, a gun fell from Reaves' shorts. The two men struggled over the firearm, with Reaves regaining control before shooting the deputy four times. Raczkowski later died from his wounds. Reaves was initially convicted and sentenced to death about a year after the shooting, though the Florida Supreme Court later reversed the conviction due to a prosecutor conflict of interest and ordered a new trial.

Last year, Florida set a state record with 19 executions. Another execution is scheduled for November, which would tie that mark if both are carried out as planned. DeSantis, who leaves office in January, has stated that his goal is to bring justice to victims' families who have waited decades for death sentences to be carried out.

Florida carries out 18th execution this year under DeSantis
Image: News4Jax

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In this story: William Reaves · Richard Raczkowski · Ron DeSantis · Florida · Florida State Prison · Indian River County

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