Curtis is a U.S. Army veteran whose honorable service was followed by struggles with drug and alcohol dependence. He was sentenced to death based on a circumstantial case, even though his jury did not unanimously support that punishment, voting 10–2 to recommend death.

Now 77 years old, Curtis is experiencing serious physical and cognitive decline. He requires a wheelchair to travel even short distances and can no longer care for himself without assistance. A recent psychological evaluation documented depression, cognitive fog, and significant risk factors for vascular dementia. The evaluation could not even be completed because Curtis became fatigued, and delays by the prison left too little time to finish the necessary testing.

Executing an elderly veteran whose mind and body are deteriorating serves no legitimate purpose. Curtis can remain safely incarcerated for the rest of his natural life without posing any danger to the public.