William Reaves is scheduled for execution in Florida on October 20 for the murder of Deputy Richard Raczkoski. Gov. Ron DeSantis can still grant him clemency and stop this execution. and grant him clemency.

Nothing can diminish the loss suffered by Deputy Richard Raczkoski’s family and loved ones. His life and the harm caused by his murder must never be forgotten. Mr. Reaves has acknowledged responsibility for the shooting and expressed deep remorse, including an apology to Deputy Raczkoski’s family at his sentencing. Executing him 40 years later will not undo that loss.

Mr. Reaves served this country in ground combat in Vietnam, enduring prolonged terror and witnessing horrific violence. He returned home with PTSD and developed a severe drug addiction as he struggled to cope with his trauma. His jury never heard the full details of his combat experience or the lasting effects of that service. His attorney had never tried a capital case and was required to proceed without co-counsel. The jury recommended death by a vote of 10–2.

Newly discovered evidence of alleged police corruption also raises serious questions about the testimony used to establish premeditation. The State’s key witness, who portrayed Mr. Reaves as clearheaded after the shooting, later acknowledged that he was severely impaired by cocaine.

Mr. Reaves’s clemency proceedings offered little opportunity to address these concerns. According to his legal filing, his appointed attorney met with him approximately five minutes before his interview and later refused to share the written submission made on his behalf. Despite severe hearing loss, Mr. Reaves was also denied a transcript that would have allowed him to review the questions and clarify his answers.

Our country sent Mr. Reaves to war. His service, the trauma he brought home, his remorse, and the serious concerns surrounding his conviction deserve meaningful consideration before Florida takes his life.